Okay, not everything, but pop culture just might have more redeeming qualities than we think.

While making no pronouncements or judgements on the morals contained in
today’s culture, author Stephen Johnson tells us in Everything Bad is Good For You, that we become more
intelligent via engagement in today’s television, video games, and web
culture.

Very few problems in life are linear.  Yet, yesterday’s entertainment was quite simple.  To enjoy today’s entertainment one
must be able to think and process in multiple directions at once….more like real life.
Example – Jeopardy vs. Survivor.  The strategy in Jeopardy is quite
easy…answer the most questions.  But in Survivor, much more is
required.  In Survivor, one must be able to navigate challenges of
strategy, relationships, and rules that adapt and change as the game is
played.  (Which show resembles your church more?)  Simply put, the cognitive demands today are considerably
greater than in the past.  While many shows and movies in the past were
intelligent, today’s entertainment requires us to be intelligent to
enjoy them.

Another example, today’s television requires us to pay more attention.
In the past, television would give us a set up and punch line within 30

seconds or so.  But now, one must be prepared to have a joke be set up in one show and then a punch line delivered 3-5 years later.  Does
VanDelay Industries ring a bell to you?  Believe it or not, our ability to study can be strengthened. 

Also, the playful exploration that is required for today’s video games
is more effective at retention and learning than any other type of experience.
The author tells this cute story about playing Sim City with his seven
year old nephew and having his nephew say after about an hour, "I think
we need to lower our industrial tax rates."  This is not, "Eat all the
dots before the ghosts get you" or "shoot as many invaders before
getting shot yourself." 

He also lays out a couple of other benefits that today’s video games have.

a.  Many of today’s video games require advanced problems solving skills that are further developed by playing.

b.  Many of today’s video games require persistence and delayed
gratification.  They can take months to win and figure out.  They often
require further study and discussion with others.  He suggests checking
out discussion boards on contemporary games to see what he means.  While on the surface this can seem like a waste of time, the skills developed can be highly valuable.   (I would emphasize   can stronger then he would.)

Here is why understanding this type of mental engagement is so
important.  I believe that when we teach/preach in an old media way,
we may well be insulting our listeners and damaging our cause. If it
is too easy, our message may come across as unworthy or unreal.  Besides, any
Savior who can say, "Take up your cross and follow me," while also
saying, "my burden is easy and my yoke is light" deserves treatment that does not belittle its complexity and
beauty.

Visit your local library or buy Everything Bad is Good For You at the Smart Pastor Bookstore.