Us vs. Them

Hard to believe, I know, but some people do not like reality TV. I couldn't tell you who those people are because frankly they're not the type of people I choose to associate with, but they do exist. In great numbers, perhaps, and not in a "no I really do hate reality TV, I ONLY watch it to make fun of it" type of way. In a genuine hatred sort of way.

Take Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody, for example. The British entertainer not only hates reality TV-he wants to put an end to it. According to GIGWISE.com, the singer believes reality shows are turning us all into brainless zombies. My words, not his, but this is what he had to say: "It anesthetizes a whole nation and lowers our collective IQ. It is the perfect psychological weapon and all the more devastating as it is simply unavoidable."
Unavoidable? It's called a remote, Gary.

Besides, this is coming from someone who sings, "the way she walks, my god she'd get it. All my friends reckon she is oh so fine." Riiight. That's deep. You're clearly way beyond that childish reality TV junk.

Phew. I need to cool off. Not all of these haters (haha, I just used the word hater) are completely unjustified, though. A lot of health professionals have stepped forward in voicing their disgust with the show "The Biggest Loser."

This article from Australian Web site, TheAge.com quotes a few experts who think the show does not promote the healthy eating and exercise, but humiliates people battling their weight and gives others unrealistic and unhealthy weight loss goals.

The arguments made by reality TV opponents can be justified at times and I can definitely see where they're coming from in the case of "The Bigger Loser." Everyone's allowed to have their own opinions, after all. Sometimes opinions cross a line, however, and spark actions and even censorship.

"Star Academy" is a program broadcast in Arabic that mirrors "American Idol" and provides the opportunity for contestants to win a recording contract. Algerian national TV recently banned the show because it became too popular. The show is especially popular in North Africa and the Middle East.

Apparently the show has been branded "un-Islamic" because it attacks moral values, though supporters believe viewers enjoy the show because the voting system is a democratic experience they cannot find elsewhere. How a show resembling "American Idol" can attack moral values in any way is beyond me, but it makes you stop and be thankful for what we have.

...except for "Flavor of Love." I wouldn't mind that being censored.