I lived without a TV for many years, without missing it. Then I got one for free from an acquaintance that emigrated. The old thing only receives SABC3 and e-TV, and I basically only watch TV when I eat, plus the very occasional worthwhile documentary. Mostly it's just utter crap, but there is no law that requires me to watch it.
So on a personal level TV is of no consequence to me. I am somewhat worried about its pernicious effect on society though. I am a school teacher, and every day I can see the effect of mindless pop culture on the youth (rather fittingly, I mistyped "pop culture" as "poop culture" - a typo so appropriate I should perhaps have left it).
On the other hand, pop culture has always existed. Most people are and always have been pretty stupid, and here we still are, kicking and breathing. I'm getting old enough now that I just can't be bothered with fighting these fights anymore, but still young enough to enjoy life. If the youth wants to throw away three millennia of hard-earned knowledge, then it will be their price to pay in a few decades.