Spring Break
Re-examining the 'reality' behind reality television
Lindsay Pfeffer '06 looks at the obsession of the American public with reality TV shows as a blaring societal flaw.
by Lindsay Pfeffer
Justice Contributing Writ
Arts | 1/28/03
Posted online at 10:26 PM EST on 1/27/03
An obvious effect of the influx of reality television shows is the American obsession with love relationships. However saddening it may be, it is evident that the thrill of romance is gradually dying out as the relationships become increasingly based upon practicality.
It is disquieting that the show "Meet My Folks" will actually get viewers. It seems from this pitch that parental evaluation of a significant other has become more important than the chemistry between partners.
"Married by America" is even more disturbing because of its objective to marry off two people who are selected by the television audience. My guess is that America won't make a happy couple when the resultant newlyweds, who actually spent time together in shows such as "Who Wants To Marry a Millionaire?" and "The Bachelor," severed their ties soon after the shows finished airing.
The reality scene has also provided a tainted portrayal of women. The women of "Joe Millionaire" reinforce the stereotype of women who marry for financial security rather than true love. Even if a woman chooses not to be with Evan for emotional reasons, it may appear to be due to her disappointment in his lack of wealth.
"Bridezilla" doesn't bode well for the female image either. The exhibition of brides whining and arguing with their families and spouses on their wedding days won't leave them with much dignity to uphold. Shows such as "The Bachelor" and "The Bachelor 2" put women on display and make them practically beg for those damn roses and necklaces.
A similar show, "The Bachelorette" attempts to fight back a bit with the reversed situation of men vying for a woman's affection. However, there is much to say about the unflattering depiction of the female species.
Reality television may be here to stay, unless America gets smart and recognizes the senselessness that is inherent in the concept of unrealistic "reality" TV. Perhaps the genre is so popular because it gives Americans relationships to care about when they aren't interested in their own. Maybe it's because Americans take pleasure in watching people embarrass themselves in front of a national audience.
Whatever the reason, reality shows have given Americans increased motivation to lounge around in their living rooms while munching on potato chips, and wondering why they live to watch other people live on their television sets.
It is disquieting that the show "Meet My Folks" will actually get viewers. It seems from this pitch that parental evaluation of a significant other has become more important than the chemistry between partners.
"Married by America" is even more disturbing because of its objective to marry off two people who are selected by the television audience. My guess is that America won't make a happy couple when the resultant newlyweds, who actually spent time together in shows such as "Who Wants To Marry a Millionaire?" and "The Bachelor," severed their ties soon after the shows finished airing.
The reality scene has also provided a tainted portrayal of women. The women of "Joe Millionaire" reinforce the stereotype of women who marry for financial security rather than true love. Even if a woman chooses not to be with Evan for emotional reasons, it may appear to be due to her disappointment in his lack of wealth.
"Bridezilla" doesn't bode well for the female image either. The exhibition of brides whining and arguing with their families and spouses on their wedding days won't leave them with much dignity to uphold. Shows such as "The Bachelor" and "The Bachelor 2" put women on display and make them practically beg for those damn roses and necklaces.
A similar show, "The Bachelorette" attempts to fight back a bit with the reversed situation of men vying for a woman's affection. However, there is much to say about the unflattering depiction of the female species.
Reality television may be here to stay, unless America gets smart and recognizes the senselessness that is inherent in the concept of unrealistic "reality" TV. Perhaps the genre is so popular because it gives Americans relationships to care about when they aren't interested in their own. Maybe it's because Americans take pleasure in watching people embarrass themselves in front of a national audience.
Whatever the reason, reality shows have given Americans increased motivation to lounge around in their living rooms while munching on potato chips, and wondering why they live to watch other people live on their television sets.
