Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word for each of the blanks.
INFLUENCE OF TELEVISION
Television has changed the lifestyle of people in every industrialized country in the world. In the United States, where sociologists have studied the effects, some interesting observations have been made.
Television, although not essential, has become (1)______ intergral part of most people’s life. It has become a baby-sitter, an initiator of conversation, the major transmitter of culture, a keeper of traditions. Yet what can be seen on TV in one day is critically analyzed, it becomes evident that television is not a teacher but a sustainer. The poor quality of programming does not elevate people into greater (2) _______, but rather maintains and encourages the status.
The (3) _______ reason for the lack of quality in America beaan with the radio. TV in American began with the radio. Radio companies and their sponsors first experimented with TV. Therefore, the close relationship, which the advertisers had with radio programs become the system for American TV. Sponsors not only pay money for time within programs, but many actually produced the programs. Thus, (4)_____ from the capitalistic, profit- oriented sector of American society, TV is primarily concerned with reflecting and attracting society (5)_____ than innovating and experimenting with new ideas. Advertisers want to attract the largest viewing audience possible; to do so requires that the programs be entertaining rather than challenging.
TV in America today remains, to a large extent with the same organization and standards as it had thirty years ago. The hope for some evolution and true achievement toward improving society will require a change in the entire system.
