Money Lessons From the Boob Tube

It's no secret that you can learn something about the way money works by watching television programs like "Power Lunch," on CNBC, and "Money for Breakfast," on FOX Business. But for those of us who don't read stock quotes and fund prospectuses for fun, watching those shows can feel like work. Sometimes, you want to just sit back and watch Andy and Barney outwit some small-town crooks and not think too hard.

Fortunately, if you want to enjoy a fun sitcom or a trashy reality show and still learn how to make money, you can. You just have to watch them with a slightly different mind-set.

If you really think about your favorite TV programs you can pick up almost as many financial lessons as you could by watching Maria Bartiromo on CNBC.

Don't believe us? Then read about the money lessons in these eight classics.

The show: "The Cosby Show"

Channel: TV Land

What you can learn: See what family life can be like when both parents work hard to become successful, affluent professionals. The family goes through the trials of daily life while putting family first -- and managing to laugh, hug and drop lots of clever one-liners.

Money quote: In this famous dialogue from the pilot episode, Theo tells his dad that he doesn't aspire to make a lot of money like his parents. He wants to make just enough, like regular people. And so using Monopoly money, Cliff offers a classic lesson in economics.

Cliff: So how much do you expect to make a week for "regular people"?

Theo: $250.

Cliff: (pointing to the bed) Sit down. I will give you $300 a week. $1,200 a month. (Cliff hands the money to Theo)

Theo: I'll take it!

Cliff: And I will take $350 for taxes.

Theo: Whoa!

Cliff: Oh, yeah. See, the government goes for the regular people first. So, how much does that leave you with?

Theo: $850.

Cliff: OK, now you'll need an apartment because you are NOT living here. Now an apartment in Manhattan will run you at least $400 a month. (Cliff takes $400)

Theo: I'll live in New Jersey. (Theo takes back $200)

Cliff: Now you'll need a car. (Cliff takes $300)

Theo: I'll drive a motorbike. (Theo takes back $100)

Cliff: You're gonna need a helmet. (Cliff takes $50) Now figure $100 a month for clothes and shoes.

Theo: Figure $200. I wanna look GOOD.

Cliff: So, how much does that leave you with?

Theo: $200. So, no problem.

Cliff: There IS a problem! You haven't EATEN yet! (Cliff takes $100)

Theo: I can get by on bologna and cereal. (Theo takes back his $100) So I've got everything under control PLUS $200 left for the month.