What are the pros and cons of television these days?

There are a fair few pros and cons of television these days, including things like the variety of shows available, and the educational value of certain shows.

I've highlighted some of the most significant pros and cons of watching TV below...

1. There are a variety of educational programmes on television these days, for both adults and children, and these offer insights into history, environmental factors, world issues, politics and much more.
2. Television provides access to images that some may never be able to physically experience in their lifetime.  For example, a television show can show you the habitats of polar bears, and then transport you to Africa in the next minute.  Becoming aware of the world outside of our daily lives has to be considered a big positive.
3. Some recent television shows have encouraged viewers to read more.  For example, the currently popular "Game of Thrones" has lead to people reading the books of the same title, and many of these readers may be new to novels.
4. Creative ideas can flow from something you've seen on television.  A great example of this can be found in modern day cooking shows, which make it very easy to follow at home.  Other creative shows, such as those showing children's crafts, may help to inspire children to get involved at home.

Cons of television these days

1. Television can negatively impact on lives if it becomes something that's watched for a large amount of time each day.  This can lead to a lack of exercise and therefore weight gain.
2. Although there are plenty of educational programmes on television these days, there are also a lot of useless ones.  Reality TV can be fun to watch, but offers little in terms of takeaway value.  (Apart from the takeaway you ordered when watching it!).
3. Children can have their creative development stifled by television.  History tells the tale of children using their imagination to have fun, and create world's from their own minds.  These days, it's more likely that children will imitate the worlds and characters of their favourite television shows.

Ultimately, television has a number of pros and cons these days.  I think it's important to take it for what it is - entertainment.  If you're watching television for just a little amount of time, it's hardly going to impact you too negatively. 

That being said, if television consumes your non-working life, you're probably missing out on lots of social experiences and stifling your creative potential.  Balance is key.