by Lisa Cara

Created on: May 08, 2009   Last Updated: May 13, 2009

In order to answer the question of whether reality TV really reflects reality, we have to define what constitutes reality TV. Then given a common definition, we can decide if the programming within that definition reflects reality, real life, in some way. Certainly we have a wide variety of choices that may or may not qualify as reality TV, and many of the latest crop of reality TV series have, or claim to have elements of reality incorporated into them. The answer must be based on a subset of reality TV programming, generally agreed upon by the public, via ratings and longevity. Also, we should consider the industry's definition of "reality TV", which, based on this author's research, does not necessarily align with the viewer's definition. Finally, no matter how you define it, reality TV has been and is extremely popular entertainment. Why reality TV is so popular leads to an insight that has nothing and everything to do with reality; and says some disturbing things about the audience, as well as Hollywood's marketing strategies for this genre.

According to Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, "Reality TV us a genre of television programming that presents purportedly unscripted dramatic or humorous situations, documents actual events, and usually features ordinary people instead of professional actors. ...most commonly used to describe programs of this genre that have been produced since 2000. Documentaries and nonfiction programming such as news and sports shows are not included" I believe this is the most widely held view, particularly in the general populace. Accordingly, this definition, excludes: variety contest programs such as "American Idol" and "Dancing with the Stars"; but should include shows like "America's Funniest Videos" and "Cops", and 'day in the life of' shows like, "Ice Road Truckers",and "The World's Deadliest Catch". The latter set could be arguably set aside, because the cast of participating members in both cases changes little season to season, and while they are not professional actors, they are purportedly professionals in their fields. "Candid Camera", which originated on radio and has been on and off television since 1948, is considered by many to be the origin of "reality TV". "Cops" originally aired in 1989, and "Americas Funniest Videos" has 18 seasons under its belt. All three of these shows are excluded if we look at shows produced 2000 and later. For the purposes of this argument, I will focus on shows like "Survivor", "Big

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