Aadhya
Television, often affectionately referred to as the “idiot box”, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the course of the twentieth century. It has established itself as a powerful medium for disseminating information and providing entertainment to the masses, even to those who may lack the ability to read. Its appeal extends to the illiterate or semi-literate population, as well as the impressionable minds of children who are often seen as uncritical recipients of its content.
In recent years, research has delved into the profound influence of television, particularly educational programming, on the attitudes and beliefs of young minds. Scholars have examined how the portrayals of societal roles and values in educational television could impact children’s cognitive development. Surprisingly, the evidence regarding the correlation between the hours of television watched and cognitive test scores is not as straightforward as one might assume.
Initially, there seemed to be a negative correlation between the hours of television watched and cognitive test scores. However, this association disappears when accounting for factors such as parental characteristics and unobserved child characteristics. It suggests that the mere act of watching television does not inherently hinder children’s test scores.
Nonetheless, the impact of television on individuals goes beyond cognitive development. Research spanning a 17-year interval revealed a significant link between excessive television viewing during adolescence and early adulthood and the likelihood of engaging in aggressive behavior later in life. This connection remained significant even after controlling for various factors such as previous aggressive behavior, childhood neglect, family income, neighborhood violence, parental education, and psychiatric disorders.
Television has evolved from its origins as a tool primarily employed by advertisers to sell products into a potent instrument for rapidly disseminating news and various forms of entertainment. It became an essential part of our lives, evident in the widespread panic that ensued in 2009 when the switch from analog to digital television broadcasting loomed. Over 2 million Americans were caught unprepared for this transition, prompting swift action by President Obama to ensure that everyone remained connected.
While television undoubtedly plays a vital role in our lives, it is essential to acknowledge the changes it has undergone since its inception in the 1920s up to the year 2015. It has brought the world’s best information to our fingertips, but it has not been without its share of controversies. Television shows and movies, at times, have had a negative impact on how this generation perceives the world, raising concerns about its influence on societal values and perceptions.
In conclusion, television’s journey from being disparaged as the “idiot box” to becoming an indispensable part of our lives is a testament to its enduring relevance. It serves as a double-edged sword, offering both valuable information and entertainment while also raising questions about its potential negative effects. As we continue to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of television, it remains crucial to strike a balance between its benefits and potential pitfalls, all while recognizing its significant impact on our society.
References:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/231643801_Idiot_box_vs_Intelligent_box
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/227414355_Is_the_’Idiot’s_Box’_Raising_Idiocy_Early_and_Middle_Childhood_Television_Watching_and_Child_Cognitive_Outcome
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/11440839_Television_Viewing_and_Aggressive_Behavior_During_Adolescence_and_Adulthood
https://www.cram.com/essay/The-Idiot-Box-The-Information-Box-Or/P3YWNYAYHBWW
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