Paradoxically I think poverty may prevent depression. I think that perhaps people who live in true poverty do not have the time or energy to waste on depression.
Have you seen the National Geographic show Worlds Apart? From that and other experiences, I tend to believe those who live "simple" lives with direct cause and effect relationships (if you do not work, you are not able to eat), there is more social cohesion and less ambiguity about things. People are not rich but they can be none the less happy. Poverty does not equal sorrow and riches do not equal happiness.
As for the effects of television, you can simply notice the effects it has upon yourself to determine what is true for you.
In general, I do find that watching the news upsets me. Especially when I found out about the contents of the Patriot Act.
[This message has been edited by babayada (edited April 04, 2004).]
