A Look at Reality TV in our Culture

 https://thehornetonline.com/2020/03/06/reality-television-is-destroying-societal-values/

The article above gives its opinion on why reality television is ruining American societal values. The author makes some good points on how reality television portrays only a small glimpse of reality and promotes “irresponsible behavior, unhealthy relationships, and degradation of family values”. They talk about how directors and producers of these shows need to fill a typical 44 minute time slot and edit down all of this footage to tell a narrative and create drama and excitement which in turn has created that negative influence on societal behaviors. Americans view shows like Keeping up with the Kardashians as a glimpse into the life of luxury when all it really does is stimulate those negative behaviors they portray.  

The article is making a mass culture theory argument by taking the stance that reality television is worthless in our society because of all the negative themes and actions that shows highlight and promote for their viewers entertainment. It goes into how the influence reality tv has on the masses has created a culture that enables bad and confrontational behavior. The author’s views on reality television would indicate that they believe that reality television is below us and that it should have no value in our society as it only has a negative and manipulative effect on those who are fans of it, warping reality of their viewers into believing that is either the life of luxury or that is how everyday people should be living/dealing with relationships. 

I wouldn’t say that reality television is completely worthless or doesn’t have a spot in our popular culture, it does show a gateway into people’s lives. Being exposed to the public eye can be comforting for people if they see someone they idolize going through a hard stretch of times and coping with that if they are also going through some hard times as well. Feeling that human connection that how they are feeling is normal and that they are not alone. For me, reality tv has its value in the emotional connection with people. So while I do agree that reality television does promote poor behavior and not an accurate portrayal of reality for the average person, there are aspects of it that can be taken away and do hold some value to its viewers.