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Watching Reality TV Doesn't Make Us Dumb

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Watching Reality TV Doesn't Make Us Dumb
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Regardless of the way you feel about reality TV, it is something that is insanely popular in our society. As much as I hate to admit it, I am a reality TV junkie. If you hand me a remote I will either be flipping to E! or Bravo.

Reality TV began gained popularity in the '90s, and since then, it has taken the world of television by storm.

There have always been scripted comedies and dramas featuring a variety of characters. Well, when it comes to reality TV, there is a cast of people who get followed throughout their daily lives by a camera crew unscripted (or at least it's supposed to be unscripted). That doesn't mean the problems aren't real, though. For entertainment, production can totally beef up a show to make it the most drama-filled and entertaining piece as possible.

Reality TV has become a cultural phenomenon. With the constant addition of new shows and never-ending twists and turns, it’s safe to say that this genre is not going anywhere anytime soon.

I mean who doesn’t love to watch middle-aged women fight and scream at each other? Ever since I was little I can remember sitting on my couch watching these women fight. My obsession with reality TV has only grown stronger since then. As many will argue, this TV genre is stupid and ridiculous, and I can’t help but agree and disagree at the same time.

Sure it may be strange that I enjoy watching others people’s lives roll out on a television, but their daily drama is like a drug — once you start you can’t be stopped.

I have been watching "Real Housewives of New Jersey" (my favorite reality TV show) since it began airing. Since I am from New Jersey, I felt more included when watching these episodes because I knew all the places they were filming at. The famous episode where Theresa flips the table — yup, I know that restaurant.

You could compare it to when you are driving and you see a rush of police due to an accident, you can’t help but look at what is happening. This is how the producers of the shows lure in the audience such as myself.

There have been constant arguments over if these shows are actually scripted or not, but at this point I’m so invested in their lives it doesn’t even matter.

The endless drama, catfights, and crazy shenanigans may always be over the top, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Some say that reality TV is brainwashing our generation, but all I can say to these haters is you must live a very boring life.

I wouldn’t want all this drama in my life, but watching it happen in someone else’s life is where the entertaining part comes in.

There’s just something about going above and beyond to capture the most dramatic moments in someone’s life for another’s enjoyment, and it is undeniably addicting. Can’t stop, won’t stop.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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