Reality Television Idea: Religion Swap

For centuries, millennia even, wars across the globe have been fought, and millions of people have died, over one central issue: Religion. While many other issues have entered into the equation over the years, the religious factor has been present in a vast majority.

Consider the purpose of shows like ABC's Wife Swap and FX's Black or White. These shows are intended to show participants how the grass really looks on the other side of the fence. I am setting out to create a new reality show, similar in nature and intent to these. The Way It Is (a working title, taken from the steadfastedness with which people approach their religious beliefs) will place people of vastly differing religious views in a house together. Hopefully, in addition to teaching one another about their religions, the participants will be able to teach viewers as well.

Because religion is one of the most sensitive points of life in today's society, or any society throughout history, even the most willing participants will find difficulty in the adjustment process. Therefore, the participants will be required to spend a minimum of one month together, living together, coexisting, learning from each other. The purpose of this show truly is education; it is not to convert people from one belief system into another, nor is it to instigate conflict. Because of this, the house will also board a bouncer, of sorts, and a professionally trained mediator, should any communication become physical.

The most important rule of participation in this show will be no negotiations, decisions of the producers are final. The only way out is out. But there will be incentives for staying. Everyone who stays in the house for the entire month will receive a prize of $10,000. And at the end of the month, there will be an extensive exam, created by the participants themselves (and approved by the production staff) prior to moving in or to meeting their house mate(s). The exam will consist of no fewer than 100 questions regarding what the participants feel are the most important aspects of their belief system, as well as questions about themselves as a person. After all, it is impossible to understand what someone believes in if you do not first understand them as an individual. Anyone with a score of 90% or better on this exam will receive an additional cash prize of $5,000, an incentive for making a concentrated effort to get to know each other.

Due to the potential for "ugliness," this show is best suited for late night cable or possibly even for premium cable (HBO, Cinemax, Showtime). TV-MA is the only appropriate rating for this show and applicants must submit to a background check and a series of psychological tests to ensure against violent tendencies.

Because sex sells and the only thing that may be able to outsell sex is controversy, this show should be a tremendous hit. But hopefully in the ratings tidal wave, viewers and participants alike will learn a few things about lifestyles other than their own and about tolerance.