Game Shows

I think game shows might be the most dangerous programs of all…

The reason for this is because they serve to help legitimate the myth that useless knowledge can and should be rewarded. Shows like Jeopardy and Who Wants to be a Millionaire basically trick people into believing that simply knowing things that have or add no value to their lives or their understanding of reality at large can result in fame, riches and rewards; and then somehow make them more intelligent and valuable than other people.

As of now (as evidenced by social media), it seems many people attempt to demonstrate value to others by espousing useless words and factoids. This is highly problematic because people with very limited and circumstantial knowledge now feel emboldened to talk over those with solid reasoning capabilities and deep understandings for complex concepts, topics and issues.

AndI’m not saying game shows are solely to blame here, but if it weren’t for game shows helping to perpetuate and legtimate the myth that knowledge (especially in areas like history, culture and mythologies) is valuable and useful towards helping people capture value (that is, procure resources) from society, do you think there’s at least a chance the people of the world would’ve revolted against all the useless knowledge they’ve been forced to consume and regurgitate through the years; specifically within the academic (socialization) process?

Do you think shows that reinforce the view of having knowledge for the sake of knowledge alone play(s) a role in the dumbing down of humanity?

Smart man: “I may not understand much, but at least I know this, this and this…”