LIFE IS REALITY, NOT EPISODIC TV

LIFE IS REALITY, NOT EPISODIC TV I am addicted to “reality” television. I put the word “reality" in quotes, because we all know the footage on the shows is edited so much that the final product no more reflects reality than my pretending I was a former supermodel does. Chicago was recently the scene for casting calls for “America’s Next Top Model” and “Sheer Genius.” Thousands upon thousands of would be participants descended on the locations hoping for a chance to be picked. The people had as much chance of being picked as one has of winning the lottery. But they still came out. I watch both those shows even though I am ashamed to admit my sick addiction. Ashamed because if I want REAL reality, I should be watching CNN, MSNBC, FOX NEWS etc. and have my brain working and not be turning to mush. So why is the American public so fascinated with “reality” television? Is it because the shows peddle blatant voyeurism (“The Bachelor”), shameless exhibitionists (“Rock of Love”), competition (“Amazing Race” ,“Survivor”) or we just love food (“Top Chef”)? There exists some “reality” show to cover every topic that anyone could care about. I love “reality” shows because I don’t have to think about what I am watching. I can get caught up in the mindless drivel of people’s lives that I don’t really care about and not have to think about my own life. There is no competition going on in my brain where I have to decide if Bill O’Reilly or his guest is correct in their assessment of the economy. During a time when we are afraid to read our bank and brokerage statements, we can watch people who for 12 weeks don’t have to live in the real world. There are no bills and no e-mails. These people get to live in a “bubble” where everything is provided for them and there is not a care in the world except if their make-up looks professional. It reminds us of life when we were 6 years old and did not have to worry about anything. It will also be our life when we enter the managed care facility. Let's hope that it's not next week!