Media
The Church of England's General Synod has voted to express concern over dropping standards in television.
The ruling body voted unanimously for the decision at a meeting in London, specifically criticising programmes which "exploit the humiliation of human beings for public entertainment".
Religious figures said shows were increasingly focusing on the negative. As examples they referred to Little Britain, because its Vicky Pollard character mocked how some teenagers speak, and Strictly Come Dancing for focusing on those who are knocked out.
Reverend Richard Moy, from Lichfield, said the Government should investigate how television affects behaviour.
However, some defended the media, including Reverend Stephen Lynas, from Bath. "For every Jade Goody, there is a Sister Wendy," he said. "Big Brother is pretty awful but nobody has died yet. There is much in the media that enhances us."
The group said it was calling for a "proper debate" on broadcasting standards.
A BBC spokeswoman defended its shows. She commented: "We welcome debate and discussions about our programmes but are surprised that the Church has chosen to focus on Strictly Come Dancing. "We would have thought the Church would welcome this sort of show."
The ruling body voted unanimously for the decision at a meeting in London, specifically criticising programmes which "exploit the humiliation of human beings for public entertainment".
Religious figures said shows were increasingly focusing on the negative. As examples they referred to Little Britain, because its Vicky Pollard character mocked how some teenagers speak, and Strictly Come Dancing for focusing on those who are knocked out.
Reverend Richard Moy, from Lichfield, said the Government should investigate how television affects behaviour.
However, some defended the media, including Reverend Stephen Lynas, from Bath. "For every Jade Goody, there is a Sister Wendy," he said. "Big Brother is pretty awful but nobody has died yet. There is much in the media that enhances us."
The group said it was calling for a "proper debate" on broadcasting standards.
A BBC spokeswoman defended its shows. She commented: "We welcome debate and discussions about our programmes but are surprised that the Church has chosen to focus on Strictly Come Dancing. "We would have thought the Church would welcome this sort of show."
More: Media, Broadcasting
TV Ratings
'Whitechapel' rises to 5.8m on ITV1The third episode of Whitechapel beats The Diamond Queen last night.
Tube Talk
'Skins': Dakota Blue Richards on what's nextSkins's Dakota Blue Richards chats about her episode and what's still to come.
US TV Ratings
Grammy Awards most-watched since 1984The 54th Grammy Awards is seen by over 40 million viewers for the CBS network.
TV Interviews
'Unforgettable' Poppy Montgomery interviewPoppy Montgomery chats to Digital Spy about her role in Unforgettable.
