More about television

Huh. It feels weird, weird, weird to be thinking about television again. I go for a few months between discussions and I always forget a few things... I forget how common the choice to own a television really is, and I forget how surprised people often are to be reminded that it is a choice, with a lot of arguments on the less popular side. I also forget just how fast I get branded as anti-TV, when the truth is that I seem to respect the medium more than most people (I just prefer to acknowledge that it is powerful and should be treated with care -- and yes, I do think that many things that are broadcast are of lower quality than could be asked for). I admit that last one makes me bitter and makes my head hurt. I'm not anti-TV, goddamnit, I don't disrespect your choice as long as you've thought it through, and I don't want to take your TV away.

It is true that a lot of people watch more TV than I can imagine being a valid, rational decision. Some studies say that the average American spends ~4 hours/day watching it, and I admit it's very hard to think that's a result of those people sitting down and really thinking what does this cost me? and how does it benefit me? how do I really feel during and after it? okay, as a result of those answers I think it would be best for me to spend 4 hours a day like this.

After noticing that a post about TV-B-Gone aroused basically NO discussion on televisionfree, I've gone ahead and created tv_thought, a place where anyone who's interested in the issue of television in our lives can discuss it. Do me a favor, and if you think I'm crazy or you think I'm right-on, join up! I'm sure it will be low traffic. And there's already a post there where you can comment to tell me your reasons for owning a TV... which I'd actually like to know, by the way. I haven't encountered many arguments in favor of TV ownership.

jg26, I'm counting on you for those thoughts you mentioned on how you want to limit/eliminate TV in your life... what are your reasons?

Comments blocked because I want you to respond on tv_thought and I'm in shameless-plug mode right now. :)

P.S. The good news is that I'll never talk about this on my own journal again, so if you hate this issue, you've now seen the last of it.

Skunk sighting

We just saw two skunks rambling around in the small grassy area beside our garage. Yay for wild animals in the city! It wasn't as good as the time last year when I saw the mama skunk with her babies, but it's good to know we still have our little monochrome neighbors.

And now, that was some close lightning. Time to shut down the computer.