Put an End to "Reality" Television
Most new television programming being produced is considered "Reality Television" %u2014 a designation that is completely misleading since most of this programming is heavily manipulated, partially scripted and often downright faked. But more importantly, it is intellectually lazy and is a major contributor to the dumbing down of pop culture. "Reality TV" programs are largely lacking in originality, preferring to rely on simple or derivative formulas that are generally condescending to their audience.
We believe that there is a place for authentic documentaries, talent competitions and experimental programming. But "Reality TV" has contributed to a decline in authentic television drama and other scripted programming, resulting in a reduced level of quality viewing options. "Reality TV" is also driving viewers away from traditional television and toward the Internet; the best way to save broadcast television is to reintroduce intelligent scripted programming.
We ask television producers and advertisers to reconsider their support for "Reality" programming. And we pledge to boycott the continued trend of insulting, pointless, idiotic and often demeaning content being produced under the "Reality TV" banner.
We the undersigned request that you cease development and support of "Reality" programming and instead channel your creative and financial resources into the production of intelligent scripted programming. We believe that the rise of "Reality TV" has contributed to the dumbing-down of our popular culture and is also responsible for driving viewers away from traditional television and toward other outlets such as the Internet. We appreciate that you have taken the time to consider this issue and hope that you will support the creation of worthwhile series.
