Thursday, March 12, 2009

Is TV getting smarter?

Have you ever wished that you could grow smarter simply by watching TV, playing a game or browsing the Web? This enticing possibility is the premise of Steven Johnson’s Sleeper Curve theory as discussed in his book Everything Bad is Good for You. Central to this book’s analysis is the concept that today’s media, including but not limited to ‘Junk’ programs, games and Web content, are significantly more complex than the media and ‘Junk’ consumers were viewing even a few short years ago. This book examines how the human mind is evolving to accommodate the ever increasing complexity found in modern media and technology.

Steven Johnson presents a well thought out argument in favor of technology and human mental evolution. The discussion is well suited to daily media consumption, and also briefly examines why once taboo topics are now everyday fare. If you’ve a mind for a light(er), mind challenging conversation this book is a great read. May your media consumption ever expand your horizons - Game on!

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