Television.

Television is one of the 20th century inventions. Almost everyone watches TV. But as with every invention, it has its good points and it is bad points. One thing is definite; it has a great influence on people. But what kind of influence?
Television offers all kinds of programs these days: news, drama, comedy, discussion, cartoons, nature biographical, educational, and foreign, etc. etc. It is wonderful to have such a variety however there are programs which some might argue, have a very negative influence, especially on the young and children. In particular I am referring to violence and sex on TV. I once read that by the time a child reaches 16 years of age they have seen over twenty thousand murders (on TV and film). And when it comes to sex, well, sex sells everything nowadays: beer computers, even chewing gum. What makes me wonder is what impact will seeing these images on a daily basis will have on children and what exactly TV is teaching these days.

This is not to say that television doesn’t have a postal side. TV has some wonderful programmes, ones that are not only educational or interesting but ones that the whole family can enjoy together. I guess it is all up to the individual to decide what they will watch. However, when it comes to children it’s a different story. Parents are often too busy working or taking care of the home, to monitor exactly what their children are watching at all times. Unfortunately. Many times the TV set becomes a substitute parent even a friend and can become addictive. As with everything in life, moderation is the key.

I myself enjoy watching TV. My favourite programs are quiz shows, documentaries, and mini-series such as “Klan”. I enjoy programs that are about life and have a message to say, nothing violent or full of explosions. Any program that offers an insight and perspective into a person, place, or thing will always catch my interest.

Television, since its creation was very popular and continues to be. Whether we like it or not, it influence, our thoughts, beliefs and behaviour. Whether the influence is positive or negative, in the end, it all depends on us.