Final answer:
The idea that popular culture makes audiences lose their ability to appreciate "finer" fare is known as the dominant culture theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The idea that popular culture makes audiences lose their ability to appreciate "finer" fare is known as the dominant culture theory. This theory suggests that the dominant culture, influenced by media and consumerism, promotes materialism and shallow entertainment, leading to a decline in appreciation for more sophisticated or artistic works.
For example, the influence of new media technology, such as television, may lead to the consumption of content that celebrates affluence and consumption but lacks depth. Additionally, the counterculture movement, represented by Hollywood and social media, often mocks traditional values and promotes a more superficial and instant gratification-oriented culture.
Overall, the dominant culture theory emphasizes the impact of popular culture on audience preferences and argues that it can hinder their ability to appreciate more intellectual or nuanced forms of entertainment.