That^^^ is exactly what happened in the colleges as well.
Comics used to make a good living doing college tours. It was great for everyone. The students had a fun show to attend, the comics made some cash and worked on their bits , preparing for tv appearances, etc.
Then the comics began getting cancelled, one by one, for making jokes about various cultural differences or gender differences, etc. And an entire 'way of life' for our nation's comics was totally shut down. I have heard many of them lament about it for years now.
And what did that do for the collegiate? It helped them fortify their Ivory Towers. No fear that any uncomfortable thought or unkind word would ever breach their Ivory Towers anymore.
IMO, comics served a very important role in society.>>>>
Pointing out the obvious ....shedding light upon the darkness, bringing into the light previously unspoken thoughts, fears, rumours, etc.
I think that is a very healing process that is beneficial for the society at large.