In this modern age of technology, most of us know that we do not have to fret if we missed one of our favorite shows on television because, we can simply watch it online the next day. But at what cost? Is there a cost at all? That is what I want to find out as I reflect on my personal internet TV watching experiences.
The Good: Currently, my husband and I are deciding whether or not to keep cable. I have no problem with this since I can still keep up to date with Pretty Little Liars and Vampire Diaries the day after they air on the internet. Even if the networks do not post a show that I want to watch immediately, I know sooner or later it will be on Netflix and I can just watch it then. So, in this way, internet television watching is great because it is a LOT cheaper than paying for a cable or satellite service and it is (usually) convenient. Also, there are generally less commercials, which is always a plus in my book.
The Bad: Networks can pull shows whenever they want, and it seems, they do not always put them up on time either. That is neither fun, nor convenient. At least with regular television watching (without a DVR) you have hopes of reruns. On the internet, if your shows network decides to take it off the site, your left to wander the sketchy back alleys of the internet to get your fix.
The Ugly: Speaking of getting your fix, watching shows on the internet can be addicting. With normal television watching you get one or two of "your" shows on in the same night (unless its a marathon, then you're just as screwed) and then it's done. However, with internet/Netflix watching, there is the potential to turn into a computer zombie watching episode after episode after episode... you get the point. Trust me, I've been through it to. I watched 3 seasons of Make It or Break It in 2 weeks... while going to school! Its not healthy and is even worse than being a couch potato, yet its an addiction. So, until you are done with that show, you just keep going back for more.
Bottom Line: Has internet watching affected me positively or negatively? Well, I think that while internet and on demand watching services are wholly a positive thing, it has the potential to affect me negatively if I let it. Too much of a good thing is not a good thing. So, if I set limits and stick to them and deal with minor annoyances from networks, I'd say internet television watching has and will continue to affect me positively.
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