The Unreality Of “Reality” TV

“Certainly, as a concept, reality programming offers the possibility, and rare actuality, of personal drama and cultural revelation. But from the nurse log of “American Idol” and “The Amazing Race” have sprouted all manner of shows in which the time-honored division between fame and notoriety has been unforgivably mangled, creating a pop culture smoothie in which there is not so much flavor as sensation.”