Millions of people in America watch television on a daily basis. A highly debated question in America today is whether television is good or bad for American society. In this essay I will argue that television is good for American society. Some people could argue that television is bad and that television is full of mindless programs that fill idle time. However, I believe that television is good for American society because television is an Educational tool; television is an information source which can keep Americans well informed, and television is a way for Americans to relax while spending time together.
Television is good for American society because it can be utilized as an educational tool. Television today provides our society with many programs that are structured around learning. One example of a learning-based television show is Sesame Street. Sesame Street first aired on television in 1966. Sesame Street can be seen on PBS, which stands for Public Broadcast Service. The Public Broadcasting Service is a non-profit American public broadcasting television network. Sesame Street engages children with fun educational activities. The content within the show is well-rounded and promotes learning in a fun way. Educational programs help improve learning and development. According to Dr. Aletha C. Hoston of the University of Texas in Austin, “Researchers at the University of Texas in Austin found that preschool children who watched a few hours a week of educational programming perform better on achievement tests over time than their peers who watch more general entertainment shows. This study demonstrates that learning-based television used in moderation can be an acceptable educational tool. Further into her article she states, “Viewing of educational programming was associated with better school readiness and better academic skills”. Again reinforcing that educational programs, which feature learning-based material, can promote learning and development....