“In the weeks ahead, channel surfers will find it virtually impossible to avoid aspiring pop stars, scheming careerists, thrill seekers, lovelorn geeks and all-star survivors. Why is this happening? The long answer might involve a florid excursion into the cyclical nature of television. A commentary on why pop culture is inherently disposable. Or how “reality” shows generate buzz and ratings by creating an artificial sense of urgency. But let’s start with the short answer: TV execs are big, fat liars.”