Why PBS Still Matters

With the developments in Congress that almost led to the defunding of Public Broadcasting, it may occur to some viewers to wonder -- what is it about PBS that makes it worth saving? What do they do, what content do they produce, that makes them an essential part of the American television landscape? If you have asked such a question, consider the following benefits and programming that PBS provides.

Mystery!

If you have ever watched an episode of "Agatha Christie's Poirot" or "Agatha Christie's Maple," then you know all about the truly unique viewing experience these television shows provide. "Mystery!" provides American audiences with the delectable viewing treat of seeing some of the best detective shows, without the expense of purchasing the DVDs or renting them from Netflix. Sometimes gritty, sometimes humorous, but always entraining, the television shows broadcast on "Mystery!" are one of the great benefits of your local PBS stations.

Award-Winning Documentaries

PBS also serves as the launching point for some of the greatest documentaries ever produced. For example, the award-winning "The Civil War," directed by the great filmmaker Ken Burns, has been broadcast on PBS stations for many years. Without these stations, large numbers of people, especially in rural areas, would not have access to this truly exemplary piece of documentary filmmaking.

Educational Children's Programming

You only have to look at the recent run of children's cartoons running on most television networks to know that cartoons aren't what they used to be. However, you can also tune in to your local PBS station and find a host of children's programming that can provide your child with hours of entertaining, and educational, programming. And if you're ever seen an episode of "The Magic School Bus" or "Sesame Street," you'll know that these productions are always of the highest quality.

Tasteful Comedy

Again, you only have to turn on one of the many major television networks to know that comedy is in a sad state of disrepair, with most shows relying on gross-out physical comedy or just plain vulgarity instead of quality writing. If you turn on a local PBS station, however, you are likely to find some real gems of comedy, most of them produced and Britain. Shows like "Keeping Up Appearances" and "Are You Being Served?" have maintained a steady presence in the American television landscape precisely because of PBS stations.

So, if you live in a rural area, or even if you live in the downtown of some major city, you have a lot to gain from keeping your PBS stations on the air. If their funding becomes threatened again, consider letting your representative or senator know just how much PBS means to you and your family.

Sources
Public Broadcasting Service