why are these idol/dancing shows so popular? here is my cultural report:
1. we like singing and dancing. we (and i mean "we" being those who grew up in the 70's and 80's) watched shows like lawrence welk, dance fever, soul train and mtv (in that order).
2. when things are really going to shit in our country's economy, people gravitate toward mindless entertainment. (see busby berkeley)
3. we get to vote. (see democracy)
4. votes are like buying a lottery ticket. (see every state)
5. it's possible that we might see a slipped nipple.
6. sequins.
7. the marginal chance that we can say as a country, "yes, we agree on something."
8. really talented individuals, who have worked really hard in their given profession, prove to the viewing public that they can bring it.
9. on-air squabbling about nothing. this is what i find most interesting. it's one thing to watch buckley v. gore, but paula and simon? carrie-ann and len... well, that is pure entertainment. and horrifying.
10. it makes us feel better about ourselves. because, clearly, we are above all of this. it is just something we watch on tv.
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