Television

Paper Summary:

This essay discusses the power that television has over our lives and its ability to influence our thoughts and opinions. The paper points out that, while television can be a window to the world and can educate and inform, that view of the world is controlled by a few media giants and that the Internet, therefore, provides higher quality content and better access to differing opinions.

From the Paper:

"Few would dispute the hold television has over our lives. It informs by reporting the news, it warns by advising of health risks, it entertains during prime time, and - in some instances - even teaches, through Sesame Street, the History Channel and other specialty channels designed to educate. But most importantly, television shapes and molds the mind of virtually every citizen, young or old, rich or poor, simple or sophisticated. Mass media forms our image of the world and tells us what to make of that image. Mass media chooses what news is covered, which items are emphasized and which are played down, the reporter's choice of words, tone of voice and facial expressions tell us what to think, and the headlines and illustrations are designed for the same. Each of these things subliminally and profoundly affect our interpretation of what we see, hear and understand about the world around us. Television plays an important role in society because of its influence. Its prevalence in over 96% of American households ensures that television will continue to play an important role in our lives."

More papers on Television:

• Book Review # 140744 : "Television as a Teaching Medium"
• Essay # 68575 : "Cultural Diversity and Television"
• Cause and Effect Essay # 6407 : "The Effects of Television on the Language Development of Children"
• Analytical Essay # 3079 : "Children and Television Violence"

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