Why is "reality" TV popular?

Same as Tik Tok. Herd mentality.

Imagine if people were influenceable and you wanted to control them without them knowing. How would you do it? By bombarding them with TV shows, most of which trick the viewer.

Attractive/rich people are generally the ones used in the deception. Or rags to riches Pop Idol nonsense to give the lost, hope.

It's a shame because if the regular watchers realised their true potential and just shut it off then commited to something worthwhile, things could be different.

In ancient Rome. Actors were regarded on the same level as prostitutes.

Hot women.

I don't watch any so-called reality shows. But I do enjoy watching documentary-type shows that reveal what people in some jobs or professions deal with on a daily basis, such as first responders, border agents, or customs officials, etc.

I can't stand it. It's not real either we know they edit things to play up drama and create villains.

Because people like drama, even if it is manufactured. I feel like there is less now than 20 years ago though.

I use to love the Bachelor shows but I quit them completely when the cancel culture mob got host Chris Harrison fired.