I feel like since the obesity rate of this country has skyrocketed in the past few decades, electronics have come under fire as a main contributor. Some people seem to think that electronics are at fault for creating the situation we're in today, because they have restricted us from being active. Well, I'm here to tell you that that is TOTALLY not true.
OK. Granted, electronic devices can be enticing in several different ways. However, the main culprits are definitely the people who abuse them. I agree that if someone were to sit at home and do nothing but watch TV, play video games, and eat for the rest of their life, well... their life wouldn't last much longer. With that said, its the person's fault for choosing to be less active, not the electronics.
I feel like this topic needs to be defended because this is just one of those basic arguments parents love to give. "Oh, we shouldn't get you this or that because then you'll disappear into your room, and we'll never see you again." That's a little bit of an exaggeration, wouldn't you think? I think the average parent hasn't really done much research into the subject, if any. That being the case, they will jump to the scenario with the most severe outcome: their children being absorbed into video games. I just think parents should give their kids a chance to be responsible about the situation, to let THEM decide when enough is enough. If it starts to reflect poorly in their schoolwork or physical health, I fully condone the suspension or revocation of said activities. However, if they are able to keeps the grades up, and still get time in for exercise, I see no issue at all with the use of electronics on a daily basis.
Wise words were stated here, my friend. I've been having an ongoing argument with my parents along the same line. Frankly, I despise sports, and think I could benefit a lot more from just going home. But, just my opinion.
ReplyDeleteWe parents do need some guidance here. I hear your argument of personal responsibility in your first paragraph, but I when it comes to a child, isn't it largely the parents' fault for not offering better guidance (not the electronics', or, depending somewhat on age, the child's)? I like the middle ground approach you advocate where the child gets an opportunity to make good decisions, but there is a back-up plan in place if that's not what happens. You end up presenting the synthesis part of the argument from our controversies in class. Nicely done.
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