McQuail's Reader in Mass Communication Theory provides an invaluable resource of key statements drawn from communication studies, media sociology and cultural studies, and includes an overview essay and section introductions which place the readings in their theoretical and methodological context. Designed as a companion to McQuail's Mass Communication Theory, it can also function independently of that text.

Divided into ten parts: Approaches and Conceptual Issues; Mass Media and Society; From Old to New Media; Normative Theory; Global Mass Communication; Media Organization and Production; Media Content; The Media Audience; and Mass Media and Effects, this collection represents an essential sourcebook for all students of media and mass communication.