Why Do We Love Reality TV?

It has been argued that Reality TV, as we know it today, was actually not stared by a broadcast network. Many will say this craze really began all the way over at MTV, all the way at the beginning of The Real World (yes, the first one!). It has been argued by me, however, that Reality TV isn't at all anything new.

For the most part, Reality TV shows follow a certain formula for success. These standards have been played around with by network execs, without much success. Reality TV often focuses around a central prize or goal, to be awarded at the end of the season. Competitors then "duke it out" all over the air waves, only so that one more contestant can be eliminated at the end of each episode. This is the standard formula that most all Reality TV shows follow.

Am I the only one who thinks this is really just a game show that spans an entire season of TV? Reality TV isn't new - game shows have been around since the 1940s and it's the same basic premise. Contestants, all vying for the same prize, compete with each other like the most bitter enemies. We, the viewers, learn a little bit about each and pick who we're rooting for based on whatever personal criteria we have. Usually, the ones we want don't win. We keep watching. Maybe the one we like will win next time.

And in truth, the American viewing audience just loves game shows, so it's no wonder that we keep tuning in. Reality TV only makes competition more ugly, rivals more pronounced. It revels in bitter competition and clashing personalities, all for our macabre amusement. And we love it, we just can't help it. Watching other people air dirty laundry in public, giving us all something to gossip about, is a tradition as old as the human race.

Another draw of Reality TV is the belief that anyone can become a Reality TV star - no matter who you are. Generally, Reality TV contestants tend to be attractive, but every so often a completely normal-looking individual does sneak in - much to the delight of viewing audiences. The prospect that any normal Joe can become the next big TV star keeps us tuned in time and time again.

Whatever the appeal, whether the idea is an old one or a new one, TV audiences just don't care. We love Reality TV, for whatever reason, and we won't stop watching. The good news is, the networks know that - and they won't stop airing Reality TV, either.