Why is T.V.set referred to as idiot box?

Question

Earier when T.V. madeits presence felt in the indian house hold journalists always referred to it as idiotbox.Now that usage has become outdated.But Iwould like to knowits meaning.

Answer 1

This was a slang word that was created for the tv soon after it was developed. One could just plop down in front of it and there was no interaction--anyone, including an idiot could watch it. The term is still used as..."I'm going to watch the idiotbox tonight" It is not considered a derogatory term..actually it is somewhat amusing/funny.
From a person who watches the idiotbox a LOT!

Answer 2

In the US it was called an idiot box because watching it required absolutely no effort or thought. People's eyes glazed over, their mouth dropped, and they looked like idiots.
Realizing this, people made fun of themselves, and said things like,
"What are you going to do tonight?"
"Nothing really ... just watch the idiot box."

It wasn't always like this in the US, but as more advertisements were added, and as programming became more and more geared toward entertainment rather than news, the terms "idiot box" as well as "boob tube" began to be used. ( A boob here is a fool, by the way.)

Answer 3

T.V. is referred to as idiot box because it has no mind of its own. It has no capacity to resist if you switch on to any channel you want. You may also leave it on with nobody watching on it. In short it follows a program. It shows only what is in the program.

Answer 4

There are both advantages and disadvantages. It depends how one takes it into consideration. It can be called an Idiot box because most of the time is spent watching several programs. Which can be really hazardous for one's health. and there are many more reasons to call t.v *** an idiot box

Answer 5

because some ppl watch t.v whole day like idiots

Answer 6

Because it's suggested that, people who consumed to much TV, were idiots.
Seen as though most TV programs were fictional.