What could the programs that we choose to watch, queue, and re-watch tell us about our emotional/mental state – and might they be able to reveal more than we are able to communicate/admit ourselves?
The al a carte, self-serving nature of today's digital streaming services allows users to set up their own digital buffet. A little bit of this, a little bit more of that, less of this. What could our choices illuminate – if we had access to the data that streaming service algorithms collect about our taste, what could we learn? Would we see seasonal trends, how do our choices change around major life events (child birth, loss of a loved one, marriage, starting a new job, etc.)
How much of what is portrayed in our top ranking shows is factually accurate? Friends is one of the most enduring, popular American comedies still watched at home and abroad to this day. What cultural notions or ideals exist that may represent or misrepresent Americans?
Good topic. When I read this I immediately thought of Modern Family. I became a viewer after it had been own for a few seasons, and I think the show does a fantastic job of depicting numerous issues: divorce, balancing motherhood and work, a gay couple, adoption, remarriage to the younger woman, etc. I would say Modern Family is a good representation of America. – danielle5779 years ago
It could also be interesting to touch on how a lot of American television is viewed in other countries and how these shows are portraying American values/culture to foreign audiences. – Marcie Waters9 years ago
This sounds be great, I think it would also be great to point out how American shows represent other cultures, and if their accuracy, or lack thereof, helps or hurts American views on other places as well as other places views on Americans. – Austin Bender9 years ago
Seinfeld came to mind when I first read this as well because it's really focused on the personalities instilled in characters and how we perceive them and how we react to who they are and how they act towards one another and other people in the show. – scole9 years ago
One recurring theme in American TV, especially shows like Friends and Sex and the City, is that these types of shows portray American women as exercising sexual freedom that isn't commonly seen in TV shows from Eastern countries. Women talking, sharing and engaging in many sexual encounters isn't seen as much in series from the East. That would be one huge difference for sure. I don't think I can judge though how accurately that represents or misrepresents American culture. Whoever writes on this topic could take a look at how the single life is portrayed in sitcoms and romantic relationships and compare to how these types of romantic relationships may represent Americans. Even though the show was called Friends, it was about living the single life, finding yourself and finding love in your 20s. – Munjeera9 years ago
