noun
dumbing down of the entire Japanese population (due to TV)
A critical set phrase coined in the context of television's perceived negative influence on intellectual standards. Often used in social commentary.
テレビの普及が一億総白痴化を招いたと批判する声もある。
Some criticize that the spread of television has led to the dumbing down of the entire population.
Coined phrase from 一億 (one hundred million, referring to Japan's population) + 総 (all) + 白痴化 (turning into idiots). Attributed to social critics in the television era.