Watching vs. Thinking

After looking over Friday's assigned readings, I've come to the conclusion that I could easily agree and disagree with both of the author's opinions. I'm sort of on the fence when it comes to what is appropriate television content and a reasonable amount one should watch TV. Johnson makes a good point that shows that more complex story lines stimulate viewers minds and really make them have to think to put the pieces together. What he calls the "Sleeper Curve," is present in most prime-time dramas as well as other shows. I agree when he says they "enhance our cognitive faculties, not dumb them down." However, Stevens brings up some strong points as well. While this cognitive stimulation may be present, television has always been the most effective venue for advertising, especially to children. Stevens shows this well in the article, referring to children as "fresh meat for the advertising industry." Also, many Americans watch way too much TV. I like how Stevens puts it when she says we should "judge our own doses," as if television itself is some sort of drug. The bottom line is both these authors have pros and cons to their opinions. While some programs are cognitively stimulating, people must make the choice not to fall victim to intense advertising and most importantly, not to spend too much time on the couch.