Why is it either/ or and not both/ and? My point is more of a philosophical one then an economic one at this point considering we are deficit spending for our entire government.
No doubt PBS is an "extra" when you are in a deficit but in theory it is a good idea and should be supported. Then again we could find lots of "extras" in that scenario, not just PBS. I think it has popped up now because it has been a favorite whipping boy for politicians seeking election.
But why should the government support entertainment? Studies show that putting your kids in front of the TV is actually detrimental so I don't buy the "educational" side of it. That's what we pay teachers for.