Does TV Have a Negative Influence on Society ?

We have conducted a survey about the TV issue and asked the question to 100 people: “Does TV Have a Negative Influence on Society?” 64% said “Yes” and 36% said “No”. Here are some of the answers they gave:
Andy: Yes, it does. If children watch violent cartoons, they might start to think that violence and aggression are normal behaviors. Television can also contribute to obesity. People become less active when they watch TV all day, and they are constantly seeing fast food adverts. This encourages them to consume more unhealthy food.
Bill : Yes, definitely! Television has always been a source of lies told by the mass media. Channels block any sort of information they don’t want us to know and tell us that everything is under control. However, this is a lie! People are seriously getting brainwashed! Television is evil!
Yung : Yes, it does. With television, you are inviting in all the violence, filth and materialism that is on TV into your house. Isn’t that what you’re doing each time you press the ‘On’ button? Whatever program you watch, it influences you whether you realize it or not! You’re feeding your mind with all empty things and ultimately you are wasting your life!
Clara : No, it doesn’t. People have the right to choose. TV is just entertainment. It is up to people what influences them. Some people think TV programs are violent. Well, shows like iCarly on Nickelodeon aren’t violent at all. There are no inappropriate scenes. So, you choose what’s inappropriate and what’s appropriate for your family to watch. Don’t follow other people; you choose.
Eddie : No, it does not. That is like saying there was no violence before television. Most violence in society is not caused by TV or video games, but other issues, like poverty. There are also many famous and successful people who enjoy playing video games.
Greg : No, not really. It depends on who is watching it. I, myself, love watching television, but I do not watch things that are violent or negative. I choose to change the channel. I usually like to watch educational programmes, because they might help me with school. Also, I am not addicted to television. When I get bored, I can turn it off and start to read a book instead. (Adapted from Debate Website)