I know that various people in my area have gone on that show, and I know why they do it, namely money, a chance to vacation in a fine hotel, and a chance in the spotlight.
I've never watched it regularly, but seen it when others were watching, or more likely when switching channels. It was once basically just another Donahue-type show. In the mid 1990's it seemed to specialize in pitting white racist extremists against black racist extremists, as often as not in full uniform. By the turn of the century it had become just a bit less believable than the "Southwest Conference Wrestling" that aired locally, when I was a child.
Today it is so unbelievably bizarre as to defy explanation why anyone, even not in their right mind, would watch such a thing. Female audience members are encouraged to flash topless (a la Mardi Gras beads), the audience chants "lying *****" in unison, the security guard is the most popular character on the show, and the stories are faker than a diamond ring in a box of Cap'n Crunch.
I'm sure I've only barely scratched the surface, as I don't watch the show, given a choice.
I'm just wondering what possesses people to watch this stuff.
- Some speculations:
• Feeds elitists' feelings of superiority (elitism in any of its incarnations, be it, economic, place, education, etc.).
• Makes depressed people think, "at least things aren't as bad for me as that."
• It's a realistic way of life that people can relate to.
• People hoping that the censors missed a little something in the scrambling.
• The world is going to hades in a handbasket.
• It's a cheaper thrill than gladiating.
