Only minimal editing here, no worries.

One of the shows I'm currently watching is the Amazing Race. I've been following this season from the start (contrary to my usual habit of watching the last 4 episodes, and then starting from the beginning-- I find that the first few episodes there are too many teams to keep track of, so I like to know who I should pay attention to). On the most recent episode there was a tense "mat situation" when the teams come to a pit stop. It involved some of the more likable characters shouting and being frustrated, and in my opinion, overreacting to a lot of things.

Which made me think the following things:
1. Reality television is edited and produced. It's edited to show you what they think is relevant, it's produced to make you feel certain ways. (Cue sappy music, which always makes me teary, jerks). So this blow up might have been brewing for a week or so, or prompted by something else, but the editing and producing has only shown you 40 minutes of these peoples past 5 days and put the blame where they think you should.

2. Being on reality television can be stressful. Not all reality shows are, to be sure, but the Amazing Race is. I'm sure of it. Travelling, competing, with cameras in your face. Take into account time zones, and the stress anyone would face travelling with someone. It's impressive that they don't get mad at each other more often.

3. The Amazing Race, for all it's editing and produced drama, is actually a race. And not a competition based on judges descisions . So many other reality shows (American Idol, ANTM, Project Runway) are subject to what a panel of judges think-- making the outcome less about actual talent and skill than opinion. (And in the other shows defense, they more or less need judging panels) I fully appreciate the actual race-like nature of this show.

I enjoy what some might call an excess of television. In fairness, I also read what some might call a lot of books. So it all pans out, right? right.