Reality TV

To me, there are two types of reality shows: good reality shows and reality shows that suck. It seems to me that there are certain programs that fall into the reality category simply because they are not scripted, but share no other characteristics with the bulk of the shows. Pretty much, the only television show that I watch regularly that could be considered a reality show is "Mythbusters", so I am going to use this program as a contrast to most of the other shows. I have seen some other reality shows including "The Real World" and "Survivor", and it seems to me that this type of show is infecting television. People are obviously watching these shows, because every time I turn on the television, I see a commercial for a new reality show with a bunch of people shouting at each other. What is the difference between these shows, and shows like "Mythbusters" and "Man vs Wild"? The difference is that the standard reality show is selling drama. They set up situations for people to shout at each other, videotape it, and put it into a commercial. Apparently, the average American will watch any television program that has real people arguing.


With very few exceptions, the creators of reality television are trying to appeal to and entertain their audiences. Most of these shows are presenting little or no argument to their viewers. I firmly believe that the point of some reality shows ("My Super Sweet 16", for example) were created as an insult to the intelligence of Americans. The only arguments presented by most of these reality shows is that Americans will tune into any program that runs commercials of people shouting at each other. Other than that, these programs are not convincing their viewers of anything. Maybe people keep watching these programs because it makes them feel better about themselves, because they do not take part in daily shouting matches and catfights. Television companies have realized that most people will be drawn in by any kind of spectacle. What I mean by spectacle is something done by a person or group of people for the specific purpose of getting attention. For some reason people feel compelled to watch hours and hours of the same garbage, because for some reason they find it entertaining. Why? I have no idea. I just stay away from these shows and recommend you do the same.