Reality TV Shows and Their Impact on Modern American Culture
Reality TV has become a staple in the American television landscape, with shows like Big Brother, Survivor, and Keeping Up with the Kardashians captivating millions of viewers each year. But why are these shows so popular? What does their prevalence say about modern American cultural values? And do they have any redeeming qualities?
Reasons for Reality TV’s Popularity
There are several reasons why reality TV shows have become so popular. For one, they offer a voyeuristic glimpse into the lives of others, whether it’s celebrities, ordinary people in extraordinary situations, or contestants competing for a prize. This can be fascinating to watch, as we get to see people’s real emotions and reactions, without the filters that are often present in scripted shows.
Reality TV shows can also be escapist entertainment. They provide a break from the stresses of everyday life, allowing us to forget about our problems and immerse ourselves in the drama and excitement of the show. And because reality TV shows are often unscripted, there’s always the element of surprise, which can keep viewers hooked.
In addition, reality TV shows can be relatable. We may not be able to relate to the lifestyles of celebrities, but we can often relate to the struggles and challenges that ordinary people face on reality shows. This can make us feel connected to the characters and more invested in their journeys.
Reality TV and American Cultural Values
The prevalence of reality TV shows suggests that Americans value authenticity, spontaneity, and drama. We are interested in seeing people for who they really are, without the masks that they often wear in public. We are also drawn to shows that have a sense of urgency and excitement, and that keep us guessing what will happen next.
However, the popularity of reality TV shows also suggests that Americans have a fascination with superficiality and narcissism. We are often more interested in watching people fight and argue than we are in seeing them cooperate and solve problems. And we are often more interested in watching people who are rich, famous, and attractive than we are in watching people who are ordinary and relatable.
Redeeming Qualities of Reality TV
Despite its flaws, reality TV can also have some redeeming qualities. For example, some reality TV shows can promote positive values, such as family, friendship, and perseverance. They can also teach us about different cultures and lifestyles. And they can provide a platform for people to tell their stories and share their experiences.
One author, Lisa Guernsey, believes that reality TV can even offer valuable lessons for children. She argues that reality TV can teach children about social interactions, empathy, and problem-solving. She also believes that reality TV can help children to develop their own sense of identity.
In her article, “Reality TV Offers Valuable Lessons for Children,” Guernsey writes:
“Reality TV can help children develop their own sense of identity by providing them with a window into the lives of others. Children can see how other people handle difficult situations, interact with others, and make decisions. This can help them to develop their own understanding of how the world works and how they fit into it.”
Conclusion
Reality TV is a complex phenomenon that reflects and shapes our cultural values. While it can be criticized for its superficiality and narcissism, it can also have some redeeming qualities, such as promoting positive values and teaching us about social interactions. Ultimately, whether or not we enjoy reality TV is a matter of personal preference. But there is no doubt that it is a force to be reckoned with in our culture.
MLA Citation for Quoted Article
Guernsey, Lisa. “Reality TV Offers Valuable Lessons for Children.” The New York Times, 12 June 2014.
