it is quite feasible to get the best use out of your TV and ignore the rubbish.

For example, over the past month I managed to watch quite a few great programs while remaining nearly totally oblivious to the coverage of Ramsey and Polygamy busts.  The only reason I knew about those events at all is because I would catch a glimpse of something disturbing as I flipped channels (as quickly as possible).

Bad TV is like spam in your inbox.  Filter it, master it, ignore it.