I have a friend who is uncomfortable watching reality TV game-shows (such as my current favorite, the frequently mentioned “Wipe Out”). Her concern is that people are doing it because they are desperate for money and that we, the viewers, are taking advantage of them by watching them Survive, Wipe Out, and eat bugs and stuff.
Speaking of which – I never quite get it when Fear Factor makes people eat live bugs. If you asked people on the street what they were afraid of I don’t think anybody – literally nobody – would say “having to eat a bug.” Though if I was aboutto go on Fear Factor I would be pretty scared that they would make me eat a bug. Ahh, ok… I get it now.
But back to the case at hand: I think it takes a certain kind of person to go on reality TV competitions. When faced with a home foreclosure, loans and medical bills I’m still not sure your average person would think “It’s time for Double Dare!” or “American Gladiators don’t look so tough!” In fact, by definition your average reality TV contestant has enough time on their hands to watch and apply to game shows, which implies a certain level of leisure. And also stupidity.
To sum things up, I enjoy watching people get beat up on reality TV, and you should too.
