HOW TV CAN MAKE YOU SMARTER

The glass teat. The plug-in drug. The idiot box. Yet contrary to thinkers from Mander to Postman to Ellison, television can do more than help you veg out, chill, and escape. Film and TV critic Allison Shoemaker shows readers how to take advantage of the 24/7 access to this powerful tool. Lessons include learning how to gain empathy (Mad Men), broadening your perspective (Rupaul's Drag Race), and discovering how working within boundaries (Doctor Who) or breaking them apart (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) can be good for you.