I think mainly because it either becomes a time drain, that once you go without you usually realize you don't miss, or it's a waste of money (you only watch one or two things but are paying $100 a month). This whole simplify philosophy usually involves getting rid of anything with a yearly commitment, which cable often has (to get teaser rates).
I understand, I've just never thought of tv complicating my life. I was once considering "cutting the cord" and my life got more complicated trying to figure out what services to use to subscribe to my shows I wanted to watch, managing downloads and trying to see if it made financial sense.
I do agree with the general consensus that people should try to simplify their lives if they feel they are bogged down with unnecessary things though. So, I'm glad the OP could find something that worked for him.
- watch very judiciously (save time, spend $ anyway)
- watch very profligately (spend time, get your $ worth)
My roommates and I spend the minimum on cable TV to get the discounted internet package (we ran the numbers, it's more worthwhile to get cheap cable than internet alone). And we don't feel bad that we have a crappy living room TV that no one ever actually watches.
I think you should differentiate between getting rid of TV and getting rid of cable. Personally I've never paid extra for channels, but have also never seriously considered getting rid of my TV. It's a handy device for playing games and watching DVDs, stuff I've downloaded, and streaming content.
