TELEVISION AS AN INTELLIGENT BOX: A PERSPECTIVE

This life is a gift, and those who embrace it live it the most. It is astounding how much we can do with this gift, and as we evolve, we combine our thoughts and dexterity to create a remarkable device, machines which change the way we live. Such is this device- the intelligent box, which is one of our most fabulous creations. Who thought in the previous century that a human being would be able to see another one while sitting at home when the other is sitting at a far corner of the world? A parent sends his child to school to provide education. However, a school to has its limits. Theory outweighs practicality in many ways in schools but with channels such as Discovery, National Geographic and the History Channels, watching TV can be as educational as going to school.

Most people are limited in the amount of travel they can do. So, they can learn about different people and places as TV opens up the world, whether through watching documentaries or drama series with multicultural characters or simply watching travel channels. It is the power and reach of the intelligent box. TV provides food channels through which people can learn how to cook cuisines that many cannot teach. In this day and age, people do not have the time to meet and interact. A TV brings information closer to us and becomes a great medium to discuss matters of common interest. For instance, a father can talk about politics or sports to his son even if he gets one hour to spend with him. It is an irony of life that the rich run miles to reduce their fat. There are yoga classes on TV, aerobics and other fitness programs for the rich. The power of the world comes to us, and we do not have to run for it. One of many ironies is that people are so much occupied in the mundane treadmill of life that they seldom get opportunities to smile and laugh. As a result, health deteriorates. Since laughter is the best medicine as it has been found to increase circulation, lower blood pressure and do much more; watching a good comedy on TV can be a great way to find something to laugh about.

People can watch contests like Indian Idol and can support their favourite contestants. Shows like DID and other singing competition induce an urge to learn these arts. These are platforms for excellent talents to showcase their skills and also a launchpad for the people who are skilled to build this platform for others. If TV is not an intelligent box, it is not an idiot box.