Exploitative commercial television

Exploitation of viewers
Advertiser controlled television programming
Cultural debasement by media

Nature

The commercial exploitation of viewers by television is the result of the content of programmes being determined by their mass appeal, and by advertisers. Using mass appeal means that neither the best nor even the best liked programmes are made available. Producers create programmes that would be the second, third or even fifth choice of viewers because at this level of choice the most number of people would watch the programme. The most exploited audiences are children.

Background

The problem of exploitative commercial television gained prominence in the late 20th century as global media markets expanded and deregulation increased. Concerns intensified with the proliferation of sensationalist programming and reality shows prioritizing profit over ethical standards. International debates emerged regarding the impact on vulnerable audiences and cultural values, leading to academic studies and policy discussions. Recognition of its global scale grew as similar exploitative practices appeared across diverse regions and broadcasting systems.

Incidence

In the USA children spend more time watching television than any other activity than sleeping. Most of the programmes are designed to sell products and not serve in any way the educational or informational needs of children. Advertisers are becoming progressively more involved in programme making, with programmes being devised with the aid of market research to test their appeal to specific audiences.

Claim

Teenagers in the USA are typically exposed to 360,000 advertisements by by the time they graduate from high school. The average American will spend 1 entire year of his or her life watching TV commercials.

If there are only two shows worth watching, they will be on at the same time.

Counter-claim

Exploitative commercial television is hardly a pressing issue in today’s world. Viewers have endless choices and the power to switch off or skip content they dislike. With far more significant problems—like climate change, poverty, and global conflict—worrying about sensationalist TV seems trivial. Audiences are not helpless victims; they’re savvy consumers. Let’s focus our outrage and energy on real threats, not on entertainment that people are free to ignore.