[jtracy]

I think that there are two different issues here. One is the content of what you are watching, and the other is the effect on you of watching television in general. As far as content goes, television has great potential but unfortunately it has not been realized. We are subjected to shows that are not only idiotic but portray people in very damaging ways. As far as the effect on you of watching television is concerned, I beleive there is actually scientific evidence that watching television rots the mind. They don't call it the "idiot box" for nothing. The other thing to consider is that watching television prevents you from doing more beneficial things. It stops kids from playing outside with their friends. It stops adults from pursuing a hobby or working on their job or cleaning up the house. Unless you can find one of the few shows that actually uses television at it's best advantage, it is best to just turn it off and go spend some time with your family or doing something else useful. Television watching is largely just a mindless habit. I think a lot of people do it because they are simply too tired to do anything else. But by then maybe you should just go to bed.