Watching Stupid People on TV Really Does Make You Stupid

There’s a guy on my street who has the phrase “Kill Your Television” painted on his car. Someone please tell him that televisions are not living, breathing things, and that they can’t be killed. And that painting your car with that message is a bit over the top, and rather pretentious.

But the guy has a point: TV rots your brain. And now we have the proof.

    One study showed that women who watched commercials with stereotypical ditzy females before taking a math test scored 38 percent lower than women who didn’t see the ads.

What’s the male equivalent? Watching Pauly Shore videos?

Regardless: The lesson is clear. Be selective. Watch only advertisements that feature the late, great George Plimpton.

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.