I would love to know your thoughts on today's topic. Please share your (kindly-worded) opinion below. :) For news, comment of the week, and much more, please visit my corresponding blogpost dailyconnoisseur.blogspot.com/2018/08/refuse-to-be-dumbed-down-detox-teatime.html

@patriciaemsley5569

6 жыл бұрын

I agree. Although I do watch TV, I am watching much less and trying to be more discriminating. I hope some day to watch very little. But there is some really good television . One show you would like (you could probably get the DVD from the library) is Civilizations from PBS. It is about art through the ages but tied into history. It was absolutely fascinating. Also, Steve Allen wrote a book about 20 years ago called “Dumbth” about how dumb we are becoming. I think you would like it. I do listen to popular music but mostly from before 1970. But classical music is wonderful. And one last thing. If you haven’t read “A Gentleman from Moscow” you have to. It is one of the best books I have ever read. And I’ve read a lot. Everyone I know who has read it agrees. Thanks for your videos.

@EE-hi4re

3 жыл бұрын

Love this vid. It's easy to detox from TV. - we have KZread now. 😅 Wow I like that I'm not the only one who stopped with the crap music! To anyone who doesn't want to be dumbed down - Get off of Instagram and social media!

Preach on, Jennifer. You will NEVER regret the standards you have set for your family. We raised our 3 kids with no cable, and very limited movie time. We were unicorns for sure, took a lot of criticism and were the butt of many well-meaning jokes. Our kids even thought they were really missing out at one point; all of them are grown and married now....and guess what? They are raising their families exactly as we did!

@RACHELORI

2 жыл бұрын

Cindie, your story is beautiful! We have 4 kids, homeschool, no cable, we play outside instead of video games. We receive a lot of criticism about how we raise them from "younger" friends "older" friends say my kids are very well behaved & sweet.

@astorytoldhere

2 жыл бұрын

@@RACHELORI Well done, momma. Well done. You will never ever never regret what you are doing🙌❤️

@RACHELORI

2 жыл бұрын

@@astorytoldhere - thank you, Cindie 😊

@sisterfleur7523

Жыл бұрын

Sooo inspiring. I want to do the same insha-Allah (if God wills) ! Thank youuu for your comment, very reassuring. I am a "unicorn" too for sure and it is not easy in this society, but I stay strong :))

My husband and I are in our 80s now. When our 4 children were in elementary school we had family dinner every night. After dinner, we all lingered at the table and my husband read poetry to us while we enjoyed dessert or an after dinner beverage. It was a wonderful time in all of our lives. And something they always remember.

Oh my goodness, Jennifer. You are exactly where I was about 20 years ago! I cannot agree with you more. We raised 5 children without television and homeschooled them from kindergarten through 12th grade -- 23 years in all. There were so many exciting things to learn and do, we couldn't imagine wasting time being entertained with meaningless shows or having our children watching less-than-wholesome programming. Our days were filled with reading good literature, exploring nature, and researching topics that interested us -- often involving fascinating projects and activities. Neighborhood walks gave us the opportunity to meet our neighbors while providing fresh air, sunshine, and exercise. And classical music filled our home. Our little ones went to bed with the music of Mozart softly playing in their room, and by the time they were older they could identify the composer of many pieces played on the local classical radio station (which sadly, no longer exists). Contrary to the concerns raised by some, who thought our children were missing out on something by not watching TV, our kids did not turn out to be weirdos or ignorant of the real world. All of them went through college on scholarships and have careers they love. There is so much life to live, why waste it watching others on a screen? These days, it is the computer or smart phone screen that consumes the time of so many. Your video is a wake-up call to all of us to stop being mind-numbed, or dumbed down, and live an intentional life.

@TheDailyConnoisseur

6 жыл бұрын

I loved your comment, Judy! What great life experience you have to share with us. Thank you!

@annielionheart7255

5 жыл бұрын

It's just sad we don't hear more about fascinating, sensible women such as yourself.

I can get dumbed down by listening to the gossip at work! I'm trying to just walk away :) Great topic Jennifer

I mentioned in a previous comment that I stopped watching TV end of 2017, however my YT watching has become borderline out of control. I am struggling to find a balance. Sigh! I do agree dumbing down is out of control in our society.

@mysticfox1563

6 жыл бұрын

Pam Long, I remember the advice of one KZreadr on this subject. She gives herself one day a week where she is allowed to relax with a fancy drink and watch all the videos in her subscription feed that she wants. Then she is done until the next week. You could even amp it up by watching them in a bubble bath or something.

@EE-hi4re

2 жыл бұрын

I don't understand watching YT because it's normally a how to video that I need

Absolutely agree with you on this subject. I find it scary how much our society is blind to so many things and how dumb some tv shows are.

I’m 22 years old and an opera singer. The richness I find in classical music is beyond compare! I really love when non-musicians appreciate that music as well. 💗 for anyone trying to listen for the first time, I recommend Debussy, Chopin, Eriks Esenvalds and Morten Lauridsen.

I personally think refusing to be dumbed-down has a lot to do with one's taste and ambitions. I have never said it out loud or expressed it, but I've been purging negative, useless content for the last few months. IMO, there is nothing wrong with watching TV once in a while if the show is a classic and if it is the way that you can wind down after a hectic day yet still learn something. As far as I am concerned, I don't have cable, I prefer not having any games on my cellphone, instead I have Duolingo and apps that I would be ashamed to get rid of in order to free up space for a dumb app. And I would rather use KZread as a treat after I achieve my daily goals and go through my to-do list... As a foreigner who made it to a top graduate business school in the US and who is polyglot, I can attest that refusing to be dumbed-down is very fruitful and takes you places :)

Yes yes yes. I thoroughly enjoyed this video. The things you equate to "dumbing down" society are the same things I cut out years ago for reasons of demoralizing society. Matthew 12:34 "For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks" and Phillipians 4:8 "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - think about such things." I do not walk around quoting the bible but these verses CHANGED MY LIFE when I put them in the context of our world. Our minds were simply not intended to be passively fed constant negativity and garbage. I am certainly not perfect and admit that I like to listen to my favorite beauty and lifestyle KZreadrs while I am doing dishes, cooking, or winding down after the kids go to bed, so I will try to take your advice about audiobooks to do something more enriching instead (or even just choose other KZread content). Thank you for speaking on such an important topic.

This is an old video already but I wanted to say that I found this very inspiring! I'm 23 and kind of bummed out about life right now, but videos like this give me a bit of hope and perspective on how much life has to offer. Thank you :)

I love music from different cultures like Spanish , Greek, French, Irish traditional music

@mysticfox1563

6 жыл бұрын

pauline doyle, totally agree! My grandpa played a lot of Irish music and my students always want me to put on K-pop before school starts. It’s fun seeing what other cultures like.

@angel2836

4 жыл бұрын

🙋‍♀️ from Greece Macedonia

We stopped watching Television 11 years ago and I never looked back and yes Audible is amazing we have such a great collection after some years.

Thirty-three years ago we removed the TV from our home because my then 2 year old was afraid of some of the things he saw on Sesame Street. What a blessing it has been to be without TV all these years! We too homeschooled all of our children who have all now completed college/ some graduate school. We had so much time to read and pursue hobbies. They spent many hours a day outside and invented many games and performed plays with other children in the neighborhood. It certainly wasn't always easy and I have to say that at times I would have loved to plop them down in front of the TV for a few hours so I could have a bit of peace, but I'm happy now that we persevered.

It is often not the "thing" that is the issue, but rather how we use it. I think you addressed this with a couple of very eloquent points. My husband and I also have phases where we watch more tv at times than others (we limit tv time for the kids always). There are times that watching a tv show or a movie has been an uplifting and enlightening experience. When it no longer is, we have no problem turning it off. Our household will always incorporate museums, operas, classical music, books, etc. My takeaway from this excellent teatime is you should always strive to improve upon your knowledge and what you contribute to your family and community. If you can accomplish this while engaging in small amounts of tv watching, etc. then great. If not, that is the time to detoxify and reconsider the choices you are making for entertainment and leisure. Thank you and your husband, as always, for a wonderful teatime!

Because of you, I listen to a classical station in the kitchen on low volume all day long. Often times a favorite song will come on and we'll raise the volume. The boys say it helps them focus while they do their school work. I tend to listen to too much negative stuff. Bad habit. By the way, hi Ben!

I could not agree more! At the ripe old age of 76, I find all the subjects you touched on have tremendous value! I hope to never stop learning and appreciating nature! I enjoy your perspective so very much! It is so valuable and encouraging! Thank you!❤

Just a note on audiobooks (I love them, too!) - the Los Angeles Public Library system has an incredible collection of digital material, and the largest selection of audiobooks I’ve seen! You can borrow/listen for free through the Libby app, without needing to run to your local branch (I continue to use LA/Libby even since moving to NYC). If you don’t already use your local library/Libby, I’d highly recommend it :)

Very timely video!! I agree completely. I love hearing of the music you listen to and the books you are reading. Thank you!!!

Hi Jennifer, I totally agree with you. We are empty nesters so it might not be as hard to darken the TV. We watch the world news each day, as dismal as it is, we feel compelled to be "in the know". We occasionally peruse Netflix for a decent movie to watch but are finding the offerings there to be very limited to rather worthless watching. All that being said, I find it to be a constant struggle with myself over too much time watching/reading social media. Why is it so intriguing to watch other people clean, grocery shop, put on makeup etc!? I totally baffle my own self! I know you addressed this in a previous post. I limit myself to a certain time to "tune" in...usually evening when I am ready to call it a day. I make myself pick just a few but it can so easily get out of hand and that strong urge is definitely there to binge watch! Sometimes if I am sewing, knitting etc I will allow myself a few extra watches. I really need to spend more time reading or listening to audio books. I guess the battle is something that is not unique to a specific age group but something we all battle. For us...the TV is fir the most part "OFF" and that is fine with us! Now to battle on with other forms of time wasters! Your videos are on my "watch" list as I always know you will have something worthwhile to talk about. Thanks! Oh...I love your music selections also!

Love this subject and agree completely with you and Ben, thanks for addressing it!

Thanks for this helpful video. Very timely for me, as I am weaning myself of tv. It feels good to know that you are doing it too. It feels like support.

My grandchildren were here for 2 weeks- we watched an episode of The Walton’s every evening and sang classic hymns- they really seemed to love both activities!

I agree. I think we need to be more selective in how we use our time. Whenever I implement a new idea, create something wonderful or simply complete a project, I always hear, “You have way too much time on your hands.” To which I reply, “ No I have the same amount of time as everyone else. I just choose to use it differently.” I love learning, classical music is a gift and reading is a treasure. Jennifer, I got your book from the library, At Home With Madame Chic. I’ve enjoyed it very much. Speaking of which, don’t forget the library. It is a wonderful way to spend time with children. Peace ❤️

LOVED THIS SO MUCH!! So many great tips! Thank you!! I am a newly homeschooling mom myself and have felt this strong pull to teach my children the joy of learning. I am learning along side them as well. It’s so fun!

Yes!!! I’m only halfway through the video but I have been nodding along and agreeing with every point! You’ve put into words what I have been feeling for years.

I couldn't agree more!!! I was thinking about all this for a while... I feel like you read my mind, thank you!!

Hi Jennifer! I've just discovered your channel and I love it! My husband and I have 2 little ones at home and my goodness, do we have to filter things out of our home and minds constantly...and to not forget to put good and truthful things in replace of it! We want their little brains to actually THINK and reason well. It is definitely a battle in today's society...for my husband and I as well. Love your first book so far and am valuing what I'm learning from them. Thank you!😊

I pulled up the song you said you loved by Albinon. I listen to it while watching your video this mid morning. It was just what I needed beautiful piece. Thank you for doing this Loved what you had to say. My dear you are wise beyond your years. Love to you and yours. God bless you and your family prayer's are with you.

Another wonderful video, as always!!!

So glad you continue to cover this subject, Jennifer. I love learning! I am always challenging myself to learn new things and it is so rewarding. Our daughter, who is 19, has grown up without teen shows, video, and pop culture music. It can be done, and, she has so many talents and interests because of that. One item that you didn’t mention, but I have noticed is how most of the current popular books on the bestseller lists are dumbed down, crass or vulgar. So disappointing to see so many books that do not add any value, inspiration or purpose to life.

Thank you for taking the time to share this information. It's a character issue so well. You are so accurate. Television is the tool of darkness. Enjoying your channel.

It’s so nice to see you and your husband sharing this point of view, I definitely agree we can stop wasting time watching tv to improve our days learning and reading and exercising. Loved this video

I just want to tell you, my favorite videos are all of the Teatime with Jennifer episodes. They are so much fun! So keep them coming please:)

Fun seeing your husband, always! Love this topic. A friend of mine constantly talks about the Kardashians and the Housewives. Listening to her made me stop watching all reality television. I never want to sound like that.

Hi Jennifer, thank you for another great video! I completely agree with you and your very special guest 😊 on all of your thoughts about our society’s dumbing down process. The idea that we should all be entertained all of the time has become ubiquitous. My way of dealing with it has been to become more conscious of how I spend my daily time. As you, I love being efficient, and like following things through till the end. But I also enjoy taking some quiet time, by which I mean taking time to spend doing things that give me pleasure. Reading a book, taking a bath by candlelight, cooking an elegant meal for my family, watching a historical movie or documentary. I have learnt that pleasure and entertainment, are polar opposites. The first is to be engaged in fully and consciously, the other is mindless and numbing. One requires discipline, the latter is a free-for-all. I mean, one piece of a beautifully handmade chocolate cake is delicious, while eating a whole packet of chips in front of the telly - not so much. One gives pleasure, the other is entertainment. This simple distinction has really given me wings when it comes to living well, and with more presence. What do you think? Sincerely, Mx

I have to disagree with Ben that watching sports with your friends at the pub is waste of time. Not every minute of your life has to be or should be productive. The enjoyment my husband gets from spending time with his friends and rooting for his team is very valuable to his well being. Learning is fun, yes. Cultured things are enjoyable, yes. Being productive is important, yes. And having a hobby you enjoy regardless of what it is and spending time with your friends and family just goofing off, relaxing, connecting, with no real agenda is equally as valuable.

@elizabethwilk9615

2 жыл бұрын

I agree on this one as long as sports don’t take over your family life

Thank you, Jennifer (and Ben) for 17 minutes that weren't a waste of my time! I've been moving more and more in the direction of "decluttering" physical and mental clutter that is wasting my time. The older I get, the more I want to focus in on priorities. Our family just got a new puppy and my teens are approaching adulthood SO quickly. I want to squeeze every drop out of the precious moments I have. Thank you, for clarifying a few things for me! Much love.❤

I did that Jennifer in 2016cut my cable, deleted my Facebook and convenced my American husband (I'm Peruvian) that tv should not be the prime spot anymore I was raised in a home where mom had a tv in a small room, never in the living room, and we have to go there if we want to watch something specific, we girls didn't find fun to be just seating there to random switch channels ....we had company almost daily and we delighted great conversations in the living room Thank you for letting me know still young ppl like you find that way of living more meaningful

Oh my gosh, this is so inspiring! There's definitely not much worth even watching these days, and sometimes we're picking a show, just to watch "something next". I need to transition or detox as you say, to more reading!

I have just re-read Anne of Green Gables as an adult and I was amazed that I ever got through it as a child. I'm not sure many children nowadays would read those big words and long chunks of description. I'm now reading Wuthering Heights and it's heavy going. I have been tempted to give up on it but remembered this video. I refuse to be dumbed down!

Jennifer, I can't tell you enough how much my life has improved since I stopped watching television...relationships, physical health, and my learning curve. A special thanks to Katie for introducing me to Halidon music.Thanks again for keeping this topic open. Linda

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 Keep spreading this message Jennifer!!!! Such a worthwhile endeavor! Glory to God for this message He put on your ❤️!!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏

So good! I work in a library so I’m a big believer in reading and being a lifelong learner. Audible is great, I’ve used it before and find I can “read” a book while doing my more mundane tasks. You can also find e-audio books from the library! I don’t get tempted much by tv, and I’ve never liked pop music-since I was young I loved classical music...but my main time waster is mindlessly surfing the web, social media and online shopping...I’ve really got my work cut out for me in this area! Thank you for the reminder :)

Spot-on, Madame Chic Jennifer! I have five sons and have been very particular about the music, media, and language in our home. Making these changes really does add to the education of our children.

I could not agree more with you!Also regarding the video about the social media, you are right in every aspect of the topic!

I loved what Ben said, having more information on a topic can stimulate the conversations we have. It’s so true, perhaps that’s why society’s social skills are declining because of many people having no knowledge on topics so that the conversations we have aren’t stimulating. I have also limited my TV intake, it’s such a time waster! I’m so glad you are turning your attention again on refusing to be dumbed down.

I wanted to like your video 100 times. Absolutely, we need more encouragement an eye opening to be aware of the effects of being dumb down. Thank you for needed content!

Enjoyed your special guest. 😊 He looks like was made just for you! Blessingd

I love it this topic! I often watch the video you previously did on it. I love it! A popular religious figure when asked to give one piece of advice for families said to get the TVs out of the home. I have a TV and watch a little each day, but limit my time on it. I don't watch any reality shows or competition shows.

Just remember the “pop” of yesteryear are the classics of today. Rudyard Kipling, Wilkie Collins, and even Dickens were all “pop” writers. The entire genre of the novel was seen as unintellectual and frivolous as we view tv at one point. A genre being more recently created does not mean it isn’t as artistic as a more established one. I guess with my background in literary criticism I want my music to have lyrics. Not all song writers stand up to poetic analysis, but there are a lot of gems. I’m a big fan of folk rock, both new and old, so Paul Simon, Passenger, Radical Face, and Bob Dylan come to mind-and don’t forget one of them is even a Nobel prize winner. If folk rock isn’t your thing The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Emienem are also producing lyrics of exception poetic quality. I think embracing classical art forms is great; I love the theater, opera, symphony, and ballet; but putting them on a pedestal seems like it can be a slippery slope to living in the past, shutting yourself off from innovations that are amazing and enriching, and becoming a bit snobby. I guess my point is don’t forget to try new things too. I went to the electric forest music festival this year even though that sort of thing isn’t my normal cup of tea and the way they crafted the physical architecture of the environment to act as an extension of the music was amazing. This would be easy to miss or entirely dismiss without an open mind though.

@TheDailyConnoisseur

6 жыл бұрын

I would love to cut and paste the lyrics of the type of songs I am talking about, but I can't put them on my channel because they are too profane. Like I mention in the video, I am not talking about all popular music.

@mysticfox1563

6 жыл бұрын

the Daily Connoisseur, no worries, I know the type you mean. It’s just too easy to disregard too much and not hunt out the good stuff at times. I’d hate for people to get carried away and write off too much. I remember you posting once about a concert you went to and a few comments were a bit silly with how critical and surprised they were. As if it’s impossible to like both classical and modern music. Quality is quality. On that note (pun intended) I tend to think of wholesome and artistic quality like a Venn diagram. There is a lot of wholesome stuff that is frankly rubbish and a surprising amount of profanity in high quality music. If you want both your pool definitely gets smaller, though truth be told I’m not bothered by difficult topics or profanity if the quality is good. I also don’t have little ears to worry about though! 🙉

@TheDailyConnoisseur

6 жыл бұрын

It's true... once you have little ears to worry about you start caring a lot more :)

@rachelathome7516

6 жыл бұрын

To think Doris Day & Helen Shapiro were pop, and relating that to say Christina Aguilera of the 00’s or of say RiRi’s music of today makes me want to cringe. I’m not a fan of classical music but like early swing, jazz. When I’m in the car with my preschooler I have the radio tuned into a modern Christian based channel that still plays modern pop but without all the explicit or inappropriately illustrative lyrics. Considering I’m non-faith that says something 😂

@margemoore9608

6 жыл бұрын

- - q

I love listening to Dr radio on Sirius. I love learning about new studies and treatments and everything health related.

Well I’m a late comer to this video but thank you so much Jennifer. You opened my eyes to the need to make a change.

I totally agree with u Jennifer! I ❤️ this video and Ben is the icing on the cake! I would like to listen to more classical music, because even tho I don’t like cooking, classical music makes it a little more fun!😋

Just watched this now - this is something I had not put a name to, but I agree! I don't watch TV or listen to pop music. Thank you for sharing these thoughts and encouragement!

Hi it's so cheerful to hear you talk and somewhat peaceful! It's been funny to hear Kazakhstan in this video. I am originally from Almaty moved in ME US in 2003 I am 44 years young 🤣 ! Thank you for what you do !!! I discovered you myself and loving it! God Bless you and family!!!

Just ordered a copy of The Mayflower and am looking forward to it. Appreciate your recommendations of books and music. Regarding classic music, I love your recommendations and hope you will continue to recommend more. I have begun to listen to classical once again after many years, but to be honest, there is some of it I really don't care for, so having something recommended is a big help to those of us who are not wholly familiar with it.

So comforting to hear a British accent!! Love from 🇬🇧

Love your videos! Thank you! I try to listen to Mozart & Beethoven when we assign homeschool assignments. Other times, our kids listen to 70s & 80s music like ZZ Top, Pat Benatar & The Eagles & Creedence. Our daughter also listens to Austin French, a contemporary Christian singer, & our boys love The Newsboys.

You are 100% correct!!! I do need a little less computer time. I've just about stopped watching TV. I find that I get upset every time I watch it. It see like all the TV shows have some sort of negative content. Thank you for making the world a better place!!

Jennifer, this video is refreshing. I grew up without a television for all but one year of my life. My husband and I do not own one now and are glad for that fact. I also love Audible and listen to books while I cook, drive, and do housework. Yes about the sports. It is like the bread and circuses in Rome. We are certainly dumbed down in America. My husband and I are doing our best to go against the flow. Thank you for being an inspiration!

Delightful guest. Be immersed in education. It will thwart the Insipid programming society fell to. You both are exemplary to so many 💞

WOW ❤❤❤, how I enjoyed this episode. Very true what you say! I do have off days when I need to zone out and watch you and Marie Anne.... and you and your husband really compliment each other! Btw, he looks like one of my brother's, Always ready with a smile.😁💕

I love that classic piece as well. It’s very sad, but fills you up with so many different emotions. I have not watched any shows for about a month now because I literally have no time and I haven’t found anything I would make time for. So I’m going to take advantage of this and not make time for tv anymore, but if I ever happen to have time for something that seems interested then I’ll watch. I actually want to go back to making books and painting but I haven’t found the time. I have a 4 month old and it’s been hard to get into a schedule. Thanks for sharing this.

This is the 4th or 5th time I've watched this over the years and it remains just as relevant today as it did then 😊❤

Yes I agree. I watched too much tv to relax. I started to read abit n try to sleep abit earlier too. Thank you. First time listening to you n yr Husband. Cheers fm Singapore.

You make such good points about popular music! I talk about the lack of skill involved in a lot of the pop music today due to the hyper-commercialization of the mainstream music industry. Often people get really upset with me and call me a "music snob" etc...but I have a degree in music history and I feel that through the study of the development of the music industry has only reinforced my feelings about current pop music. Thank you for saying it!

I’m so excited for your book. I have taken up the piano to fill up my tv time. My girls have gotten a lot better about playing without having tv entrainment

"The Minimalists" podcast also advocates to allow only the things that add value to your life.I enjoy public radio, Audible & podcasts while I do housework. I also have been loving to listen to "Bethoven for Breakfast" or "Mozart in the Morning" in AM & Chopin's Nocturne in PM. Love when you have your husband as "special guest". ;)

@monagopal4270

6 жыл бұрын

Jessica Zaborski , love The Minimalist podcast.

@tima1443

4 жыл бұрын

Yes! The minimalists have great advice and discussions that everyone who wants to live with purpose, should hear !!

Thank you Jennifer for bringing up this subject! We have four young children, and we are raising them the same way as you do. My kids have never been exposed to the cable in our own house, but they know youtube. We had some funny moments, when we were at somebody's house where there was a TV, and one of my kids wanted to go and grab something, they asked if they could pause the TV. It always provoked some interesting conversations... We also walk every evening after the dinner, it is our tradition. What surprises me and my husband, that over many years no matter where we lived, we are the only people who walk with their kids not to the park or their car :-), but around the neighborhood block.

@elizabethwilk9615

2 жыл бұрын

Sad isn’t it that people don’t take walks as a family

Great video! Very encouraging and challenging!

Love this video! I find that in my relationship my spouse and I watch shows as our way to connect. Before we met I never even owned a tv. Now we let our kid watch her own shows. I internally cringe when I think about how we spend our time and wish we lived differently and I try to get my family on board and we try to cut out screens but we start detox process and it’s uncomfortable and we go back to comfortable ways. I feel like tv dumbs people down makes people fat and takes away from doing most important things in life. I love your perspective on this.

Thank you! I absolutely love this. I am actively pursuing this way of life--not being dumbed down but contributing to society. I love your example of Ben Franklin! We also homeschool our young daughters(pe-K & 1st grade)--this is our first year and we love it! We are doing Classical Conversations curriculum, which I love because we are learning Latin! Will you please make more videos on this topic? What a great topic!!

You are such a wise young woman Jennifer and it's very good of you to share these ideas with others. I find that popular music on the radio makes me jumpy after a while but classical music is always enjoyable...especially when driving. I think one has to be very selective about television...there's a lot of garbage out there but there are some shows which are worth one's time. I have stopped watching the news regularly...just a few minutes to know what's going on in the world then turn it off because it's just the same thing being rehashed over and over.

I have small children as well and no time for much tv, however, I will watch KZread late into the night on my phone. I learn a lot on KZread but it is now borderline out of control. I struggle to find balance between me time, family time, housework, within the very limited hours left after working full time outside the home. I love your books and advice. I agree that limiting tv frees up time to be productive.

I love this (like I love all of your videos!) I recently have just gotten so annoyed with the radio stations because my car can’t play CD’s, so I mostly listen to the radio. As I was flipping through the stations one day I was shocked that the only options seemed to be country, pop, or talk show stations. And then I finally found a jazz station thankfully! But I wish there were more stations to choose from like classical, or old songs with Frank Sinatra or Bing Crosby, as choices to choose from.

I also love listening to podcasts about subjects such diet, Health, religion, minimalism, etc.

Yes, yes, yes, Jennifer. I totally agree. Thanks for bringing up this topic again. I feel it could be talked about for hours. I’d love to see your recommendations for classical music and maybe some resources: do you play cds, access KZread, or some other efficient way of finding and listening to music? I have my old favorites, but I need to branch out. Thanks for sharing.

Hi Jennifer, So lovely to see you and Ben this morning! I totally agree with you on this. I do believe Dumbed-Down has overtaken society these days - people don’t even know how to communicate properly in public anymore because they’re too much engaged on social media these days - which to mean is one of the “dumbed-down” areas. I went to a barbecue this weekend and it was a small group - but everyone had their cell phones in front of their faces!!! As far as music, I don’t even listen to music anymore.. For several years now my husband and I agree its a waste to watch any music awards program because we don’t know any of the artists/songs!... I do have one important book recommendation for your girls.. maybe they’re too young right now, but have you heard of the “Betsy-Tracy” series by Maud Hart Lovelace? It’s quite old - I think she wrote the series in the ‘50s and it’s based on Maud’s childhood spent in Mankato, but it really is a sweet series about two best friends from the time they meet at age 5 through their years as young wives at the start of WW1.

Good morning Jennifer yes I do agree and rarely do I watch TV or listen to the radio. It is challenging because my husband and adult son still like to watch too much TV and then I just have to pray and let go. I do so many other things and I feel like my life is richer without TV.

I've found that recently I watch tv while I'm cleaning/pottering around the house and just have it up on my laptop - I am still watching TV but for me it's helping the chores feel less dull, and the watching feel more productive!

Hello Jennifer, thank you for broaching this topic. One item popular culture esteems that I find hard to accept is "feelings" are more important than "facts". A quick example, would be a sports newscaster after a big win will ask the coach or key players...."How do you feel now that you have won the final game?" Instead of, "Share the important strategies that helped you accomplish this goal." Of course, the depth and breadth of this line of thinking can be applied to many other facets of life. Critical thinking skills are not championed, in certain sectors, unless it supports "worldly" endeavors. Again, thanks for sharing this subject.

There was a book written in the 70s called "Four Arguments for the Elimination of Television," at the top of my reading list now. It's important to step back and take a hard look at how television conditions us to think and behave in ways that don't really improve our quality of life in the long run. Plus a lot of unnecessary consumption is promoted there, harmful to our planet and to our collective happiness. Thanks, Jennifer and Ben, for taking the time to make this important video.

I discovered you through Audible in 2016 when my husband and I decided to give up tv for lent. Giving that up was so good for us! He now only watches the 4 major golf tournaments and only a portion of it. I use to spend so much time sitting and watching tv during throughout the day and now I hardly sit down. The only things we record now is The Great British Baking Show and The Rifleman. We only turn on the tv for news about once every other week and usually we end up regretting it. I listen on Audible and KZread a lot but only while cleaning or working on something else. The funny things is, it's not like we're still denying ourselves tv, we honestly just don't care about it anymore. When we do watch it's on nights we have Subway or pizza. Your books and KZread channel have been a great influence and helped me find joy in the daily things I use to dread and avoid. Thank you!

We cancelled TV 6 years ago and haven’t looked back. We still have subscriptions like Hulu and prime but it’s much more time consuming to even find anything worth watching( usually I love period dramas) I’m loving Lark Ascending right now for my classical music. Debussy is my all time fave tho! Hi Ben! Thanks for another wonderful video!!

I'm under 30 and couldn't agree more. I've felt this way, always. I listen to classical music or instrumental pieces from movie composers. Really amazing. The popular music of today (one in specific) makes my skin crawl if I hear it. I do love to watch my movies but am very specific on what I watch. If I feel I need something more than that a subtitled foreign film fulfils that gap. Its nice to see a community I think I can relate with in the culture we live in today. X

I have recently found your channel and love it!

I am so pleased that I encouraged my now 19 year old daughter to participate in musical productions in middle school. Now she is a theatre major in college and is totally absorbed in participating and enjoying musicals. She had a full time children's camp counselor job during the day this summer and in the evening participated in a community theatre. I'm also pleased to say that her iPod is 90% Broadway show tunes!

I am a little bit late in seeing this video just now (LOL), but I wanted to say you are SPOT ON in regards to society being dumbed down. It’s terrible. Between the news channel regurgitations and the music and social media (except you and a select few others)..... it’s sad. So thankful Gods Word isn’t dumbed down 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Keep doing what you’re doing and don’t let anyone bully you out of doing it and saying what you believe. Not only is helping young girls, but it’s helping young and older, BOTH!! Love your channel!!

I couldnt agree with you more! My husband and I got rid of tv about 12 years ago, and we never looked back. It makes it a little more difficult to socialize with people at work sometimes, as they seem to focus so much of their discussions on television shows. They say' " No tv? What do you do with your time?" Plenty of things! Ive returned to painting, Ive read so many more books and spend a lot of time outdoors. I think its made me a happier person, and doesnt everyone want to be more happy? Over the last few months I have removed myself from most of social media, no more twitter, facebook, instagram. So much of it makes people compare themselves too much, makes them feel envy or lack in their own lives instead of appreciating all the wonder around them. Recently I a have been listening to a lot more classical music, especially on the way to work, and it puts me in such a relaxed state that helps me to deal with the high paced chaos of the restaurant I work at. Now, if only theyd play that kind of music in there, I feel people would act less rude or be in less of a rush. I would like to add theater to my repertoire but alas my town and the ones around lack much in the arts. Any suggestions?

You are spot on. Hi, I am Cheri and I am a tv addict. It is my main vice, so it could be worse. Don't touch my music though. Music that lifts my spirit, makes me dance, makes me smile is of value to me. Many pop songs fit that bill. I also listen to classical, folk, country, rock, and more. I worry more about people spending time alone on devices. The lack of interaction is concerning and people that speak in texting abbreviations is just sad.

I love your thoughts on the subject but it is somewhat bittersweet to me as a retired homeschool mom. I remember the excitement of learning together as a family, the music lessons, the nature walks, cooking together and mostly reading books together. Sitting on the couch with my sons reading historical fiction and wonderful stories together was one of the happiest times for me. My husband used to read wonderful historical fiction To my sons each night before bed; Also a highlight for him! Now my sons are grown and in college and I am having trouble adjusting to being done with the wonderful seasons of homeschooling. It seems like there was a reason to keep learning when you are passing on this to your children. I’m happy for you and rejoice with you on your learning lifestyle! The homeschooling lifestyle is a wonderful way to live!

Excellent. Beautiful commentary

I would love for you to do part two of this!

I need to detox everything!! I feel dumbed down all the time. This was eye opening!

Thank you for your video, very important subject. I’ve always wondering why society is going backwards instead of forward

Great video. It was nice to see this topic discussed from both male and female perspective.

My mother played classical music in the house every day growing up. Each morning I would wake to the sound of the classical music radio station being played. I loved listening and humming along to anything that was played. My uncle still reminds me 30 years later of a road trip with my mother and I when I was 12 years old. I sung along to a Mozart opera that I knew by heart for the entire trip in the back seat while they sat in the front. It may have influenced my choice to study opera singing, my love of all things string related (especially cello). And having classical music (and soundtracks especially Thomas Newman scores) playing constantly all day every day.

Thank you to both of you!i

Wow. I'm so happy to have accidentally stumbled on your channel! I've been slowly detoxing myself over the past year and just now realized it. People are definitely being dumbed down. It's like living with zombies almost. Oh.. and I was born in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 😂😂😂