I wonder if the increase in and variety of reality shows on all taste levels caused the demise of all the soaps?

Mary V. Casey

I enjoyed reading your blog. I would like to offer my perspectives on what you have written.

Reality television has become commonplace in our society today with the majority of Americans appearing to find pleasure in the scenes depicted by the reality television landscape. As reality television encompasses a variety of topics (i.e. sporting events, fashion shows and everyday dramas), it seems unsurprising that reality television would prove to be a source of entertainment and interest to so many. As you state, “[we can all] enjoy reality shows where people have talent or have to accomplish something… [these shows] have the right combination of Shakespearean tragicomedy, often teach lessons and are engaging shows.” However, there are many examples of reality television shows which are considered equally diverting even without providing the educational or positive stimulation we have come to expect from shows such as ones you cite, “Amazing Race or American Idol.” For example, a show such as Teen Moms or The Kardashians does not provide any quantifiable knowledge which would benefit the American population; yet, many of these shows continue to be not only shown but eagerly watched and discussed. The reasons for the entertainment which is gleaned from these reality television shows which seem to lack positive stimulation are multidimensional and not particularly encouraging. However, based on the reasons that I will detail below, it seems television programming is giving us what we want to watch.

Reality television appeals to most individuals on many different levels. As stated by “Psychology Today,” “the popularity of shows such as Survivor, Big Brother and Temptation Island may be a sign that the country has degenerated into a nation of voyeurs.” Thus, as individuals are somewhat voyeuristic, reality television gives them an avenue to fulfill these prurient tendencies. Further, reality television shows appeals to viewers in that it allows them an escape from the monotony of normal life – with the click of their remote; they are transported into a world of men, women, lies, schemes, and competition. Watching the sort of behaviors that are promoted through reality television also gives many individuals the feelings that they can also commit similar behaviors in the real-world. Necessarily, this leads to, as suggested by 6 Studies That Prove Reality TV Is Causing the Apocalypse, “a gradual decaying of society…it has also been posited that being the setting of a reality show acted as a spring board for crimes like “burglary, robbery, rape, auto theft, and larceny” in Laguna Beach.”

As reality television show designers find that they are able to draw many individuals into the world of reality television, they produce more reality television. Thus, the media landscape is flooded which ensures an audience of reality television fans.

Once again, I enjoyed reading your posting.

I agree with your last statement =)

No, referring to the Jersey Shore cast as lowlifes is not a misprint.

I guess we agree to disagree!

I think some of your statements are a bit farfetched. A 16-year-old pregnant high schools drop out, rearing a child, is not always an unfortunate situation and neither is her child. To many cultures, a mother birthing a child, regardless of the circumstance, is interpreted as a blessing. Also, calling people from New Jersey that participate in reality shows, lowlifes? Was that a misprint? They are simply pursuing a field, that to some may seem controversial, but is enjoyed by them–with fame and success! Whether we agree with their actions or not, I don’t think it gives anyone the right to call them lowlifes.

Nivia