Will this more realistic model of people benefit society? Maybe. What becomes dangerous, though, is that the trade-off remains a completely unrealistic image of situations. Will future businesspeople assume that foolishly inappropriate characteristics — such as the ability to best chew out and expose the flaws your presumed adversary — prove the worth of associates? Will those with psychological problems assume that the only way to heal is to expose said problems nearly to the point of becoming nothing more than a poster child for that problem? Will it be possible to find true love without being locked in an opulent apartment together, attempting to complete foolishly embarrassing tasks?
The issue becomes even more perilous in reverse. Will we, as a culture, place less value on situations that would not make great television? Maybe this seems extreme, but it is already common in general interactions amongst people to use much of the time discussing situations on reality television as if we interacted with these situations ourselves. What, then, is being edited out? Most likely, and ironically enough, reality.
View story at THE VN/VO:
The Paradox of Reality Television Fame
Article comments
1 - Eric Olsen
very interesting and thoughtful Christopher, thanks! I loathe the concept of reality TV but do find some of it compelling: a paradox
2 - Natalie Davis
What about those who want to get on Survivor or Big Brother not for fame, for because they really need the cash prize? I'm considering applying for one for just that reason-- and I have no interest in fame at all and despise celebrity culture.
3 - Christopher Falvey
Thanks. I'm the same way. I don't hate it all, but I find myself enjoying the ones that poke fun at society.
Joe Schmoe Show was good when it was on, a few others...
4 - Christopher Falvey
Natalie Davis:
Well, to each their own. I have to believe that is only a secondary or lower reason for the sheer majority of contestants.
I mean... there have been, what... maybe 300-500 total reality show contestants in the past 10 years?
And on average they net, what... a few thousand?
There *has* to be a better way to make cash ;)
5 - Natalie Davis
Is there? I am all ears, Mr. Falvey, and would be grateful for any and all ethical suggestions.