Can television make you stupid? We know it can entertain, enlighten and educate. But can it actually make you stupid-er?
According to studies, keeping our brain active as we age minimizes memory loss and dementia. So reading, doing crossword puzzles, even playing strategy games can help.
And occasionally tuning in to The Learning Channel isn’t enough. Researchers found that getting information via television does not have the same neurological benefits. In fact, psycho physiologist Thomas Mulholland states, “ watching television is neurologically analogous to staring at a blank wall.” Watching TV is a passive activity; reading engages the brain and is a more active, uh, activity.
Of course, my brain was fully engaged back in university when my classmates and I heckled the green-contacts-wearing, demon-possessed Marlena on Days of Our Lives.
But if too much television will eventually atrophy your brain, then some shows are speeding up the process.
Recently, I entered the lunchroom to see my co-workers crowded around the television. Concerned, I listened in. What I heard turned my blood cold. Names like Snooki, Pauly, and Guido were bandied about, along with the importance of owning your own tanning bed.
It was an episode of Jersey Shore, and even in the mere minutes it took to nuke my lunchtime leftovers, I could feel my IQ dropping.
Of course, I can’t blame those poor Jersey kids. They didn’t start this mental degeneration. That honour belongs to the pioneers: Jerry Springer, Maury Povich, and Geraldo Rivera’s broken nose. They spawned the sexcapades of Temptation Island and the manipulation of Survivor.
And now it’s invaded the once hallowed halls of business acumen: Trump Towers. The Apprentice started out as talented and highly educated individuals vying for an executive position with Donald Trump. But in recent years, The Donald has dragged in D-list celebrities and has them play up their public persona for charity.
In its most recent and absurd season premiere, Trump had the two teams work in a diner. Even up against a Victoria’s Secret model and a implant-enhanced female wrestler, the men still made more in tips. How is that possible? Well, the men did have a professional chef on their team. And in a brilliant move, someone let former governor Rod Blagojevich control the money.
It’s definitely heckle-worthy. And I admit, I liked watching Bret Michaels these days, even without the spandex. While he tries to be a mature and morally stand-up guy, he’s just spent too many decades under the influence of alcohol, drugs, hair spray, and scantily clad women. Is it any wonder he oiled up his man cleavage for the boardroom?
Yes, I can definitely feel those IQ points melting away. But I figure if I read at least two books a week – something on Mother Theresa and the Dalai Lama – I can watch all the Celebrity Apprentice I want with minimal damage.