Television (TV) has become very popular over the years. It is something that is able to be done while sitting down after a long day at work or even something that plays in the background while cleaning. On the other hand, reading has been around for many years. Whether it is a recipe or documents for work, people are always reading. The real question is, which is better for entertainment purposes?

Television has been bringing quick and effective entertainment since the mid-1920s. From political debates to the moon landing, TV is a good way to watch real and fictional events unfold without physically being there. 

Sports and comedy shows are two examples of events that are more entertaining to watch on TV than they are to read about. There are certain events that if they are not being physically watched, then the experience will not be nearly as enjoyable or entertaining. 

Writers for Debatewise.org argue that television is better than reading books. 

They say, “TV is a superior medium for delivering educational content faster and more efficiently.” 

While watching TV it is easier to form conclusions based on tone, facial expressions, gestures and other things of that nature. 

On the other hand, reading has been one of the most effective forms of education and entertainment for centuries. It stimulates the brain in a way that TV cannot and allows for a more active imagination by the reader.

Reading allows the reader to get more in-depth information about the characters that they  would not get from watching TV. 

Studies have shown that reading is a good way to boost mental health, reduce stress and lower blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension. 

Reading promotes comprehension, memorization and skills that help people to become better learners. 

TV negatively impacts mental health if screen time is not kept minimal. Not only does television negatively impact mental health, but it can also negatively impact physical health by causing strain on an individual's eyes which can lead to blurry vision, eye pain and headaches. 

The main downside of reading is that there is no visual aid of what is being read and the readers solely have to rely on their imagination. While there are some exceptions like comic books, most adolescent and adult novels do not contain pictures which can be difficult for some individuals. 

When it comes to live real-world events, television is the better form of entertainment. However, when it comes to events that took place in the past and fictional stories, reading is the better form of entertainment. 

Many sources unanimously agreed that reading offers the most physical benefits, mental benefits and is the healthier form of entertainment. 

For more information, please visit:

https://basmo.app/books-vs-tv/ 

https://www.vowelor.com/11-reasons-books-are-better-than-television/ 

https://debatewise.org/10247-books-vs-tv-tv-wins/