alt
2012-06-15 17:01

Is watching TV harmful?

How many hours every day do you spend watching television? Modern people are always looking at their TV sets. For example, the average family turns on the news every morning and watches shows before going to sleep. Also, the development of Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB) means that people can watch anywhere and at any time. This phenomenon appears to be detrimental. However, watching television produces more good than bad because it provides information, entertainment and useful programming.

Some people say that television is an idiot box because it prevents people from enjoying outdoor activities and distracts them from taking the time to enjoy contemplation. But, watching television is helpful in many ways. Its most important role is to share information with viewers and therefore help people to acquire useful knowledge. Recently, a lot of different technology has appeared, but most people get their news updates from watching television. And cultural programs such as documentaries enable viewers to easily gain professional knowledge. Its other role is to provide people with entertainment. Sometimes I can’t be bothered to do anything and I watch television to pass the time. Also watching funny shows in my spare time helps me to relieve stress.

Presently, many good programs assist the advancement of human society. For example, some programs like ``KBS Consumer Ombudsman’’ or ``MBC PD notebook’’ expose contradictions in our society and promote civic awareness. And children's programs help develop creativity. According to psychologist Dr. Tanya Byron, “Eight out of 10 parents believe that television has a positive effect on their child's development.” Following this survey, she found that parents think children's programs help develop their children’s imagination.

The existence of television affects modern society. In spite of many people’s concerns over this, the broadcasting industry has grows continuously attracting many viewers. This would not be possible if television had more negative aspects. Consequently, this shows that television has many advantages to human life.

David Lee Hungi is a student at
Soongsil University in Seoul.
  • 1. NASA begins tests of 'Dream Chaser' mini space shuttle
  • 2. Israeli Spike missiles deployed
  • 3. N. Korea fires projectiles into sea for third day
  • 4. NK fires short-range missile into sea for 2nd day
  • 5. Former cop, once hailed as hero, now faces rape charges
  • 6. Celebrities born with silver spoons
  • 7. Peak for baby-making sex in ancient Egypt was in July and August
  • 8. Gymnast Son Yeon-jae now star in own right
  • 9. China 'has secret plan to replace NK leader'
  • 10. Camera is Samsung's next cash-cow
Copyeditors, cartoonist wanted
‘Expat citizen reporters’ wanted
Koreatimes.co.kr puts on a new dress