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Television: A Double-Edged Screen |
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With the rise of television, countless traditional forms of entertainment
have faded into the background. Engaging broadcasts—ranging from gripping
dramas to up-to-the-minute global news—have largely replaced the reading of
books and newspapers, listening to radio programs, and even going out to the
cinema. In fact, when televisions first entered households in the 1970s,
cinemas saw a steep decline in attendance, as people opted for the comfort
of their living rooms and the convenience of at-home entertainment.
Television has undoubtedly brought the world into our homes. With just a
push of a button, we witness international developments as they unfold. For
children, especially, television offers early exposure to language and
ideas, fostering verbal development even before they’re able to read
confidently. Many young viewers learn proper pronunciation and standard
speech patterns from well-spoken newscasters and actors. For busy or
exhausted parents, television can also serve as a temporary babysitter,
offering a way to entertain children while allowing the family to enjoy
moments together in front of a favorite show.
However, it would be unwise to focus solely on television’s benefits without
acknowledging its downsides. Watching too much television often discourages
reading. Why turn the pages of a newspaper when the headlines are read aloud
to us? Why engage with the depth of a novel when vivid, fast-paced films do
the work for us? This shift is particularly damaging to young learners.
While they may become confident speakers, their writing skills often lag
behind. I know of a neighbor whose six-year-old child can say sentences like
“I like cats” perfectly, but struggles to write even simple words. Beyond
writing, overreliance on television stunts mental growth. Programs are
pre-packaged with clear conclusions, leaving little room for independent
thinking. This limits children’s ability to evaluate, question, and
analyze—skills that are vital for intellectual development.
In light of these concerns, the best approach is not to reject television
altogether but to watch it with care. Thoughtful, moderate viewing—where we
choose what and how much to watch—can help us strike a balance, making the
most of what television has to offer while avoiding its pitfalls. |
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