The Impact of Reality TV and Social Media Influencers

Jul 20, 2024

Lecture Notes: The Impact of Reality TV and Social Media Influencers

Introduction

  • Visibility and Controversy: Visibility sells, controversy increases virality.
  • Influencers and Politicians: Both use controversy to gain attention.

Anti-Social Influencers

  • Use controversy for views and revenue.
  • Examples: Playing with snakes, legal issues, public fights.
  • Discuss their eventual destination: Reality TV shows like Bigg Boss.

Bigg Boss - India's Popular Reality Show

  • Format: Contestants in a house, completing controversial tasks.
  • Popularity: 17 seasons, multiple regional versions.
    • Salman Khan's season: Over 10 crore views.
    • Total watch time: 3000 crore minutes.
  • Perceived as harmless entertainment but has deeper impacts.

Origins and Format of Bigg Boss

  • Adaptation of Big Brother.
  • Creates controversy for viewership.
  • Escape for Common People: Provides an outlet from daily stress.

The Dark Side of Bigg Boss

  • Controversial Participants: Popularity based on controversy (e.g., Swami Om).
  • Kayfabe: Scripted reality, similar to pro wrestling.
  • Mind Manipulation: Designed to provoke emotions and conflicts.

Impact on Society

  • Voyeurism and Sadism: Enjoying others' suffering.
    • Examples: Applying chili powder, treating people as pets.
  • Mental Health Concerns: Suicide risk, mental torture.

Real Life Implications

  • Normalization of Negative Behavior: Leads to social media bullying and personal attacks.
  • Impact on Youth: Teenagers normalize violence, sadism, and bullying.
  • Judiciary Involvement: Court notices on content violence.

Case Study: Sushant Singh Rajput

  • Media and public turned the case into a real-life Bigg Boss.
  • Rhea Chakraborty targeted unfairly.

Summary and Recommendations

  • Digital Minimalism: Avoid wasting time on such content.
  • Healthy Consumption: Read or listen to valuable content (e.g., Cal Newport’s book).
  • Audible Promotion: 2-month free trial for Deshbhakt viewers.
  • Question Influencers: Assess their contribution to society.

Conclusion

  • Essential to focus on personal growth rather than on toxic influencers.
  • Use your time wisely for better mental health and societal contribution.