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.