Spiegal Blog #5

Relating Spiegal to today's television programming does not seem to be that difficult of a task. Take a look at the programming of yesteryear and the programming of today, they have shocking similarities both in daytime and primetime programming. Let's start with daytime programming. The elements that were present in the beginning included magazine type shows, game shows, soap operas, and instructional shows that wouldn't distract the American housewife. These programs were easy to watch and didn't really challenge the viewer. They were more of a way to keep the viewer entertained, and were definitely made to instill consumer desires into the watcher. These shows aimed at improving the quality of the housewive's world, whether it be instructing techniques in better cooking or cleaning methods or promoting the new up-and-coming product. These elements are very prevelant in the daytime programming of the present day. The Today show seems to showcase everyday problems, new gadgets, interesting people and places, and sometimes news. I would say this show directly targets women just by the content of the material that is highlighted. They talk extensively about problems between men and women and also give advice on improving relationships between husbands and children. The funny part is that I basically watch this show in the way in which the original producers of television would want me to, while doing other things. If I were to sit down and deliberately watch this show I would probably get bored and turn it, but since I am not, it is tolerable. Another show that I watch that directly relates to the good old days would be The Price is Right. I have been a loyal friend and true to this show since as long as I can remember. But it is very apparent what the purpose of this show is, to sell you products. The entire show is one long commercial. It sucks you in with its pricing games and leads you to believe that you are enjoying yourself when actually you are being tricked into watching a commercial. It is evident that this tactic is used extensively by other game shows during the daytime viewing schedule. Now lets move on to primetime television. Speigal comments about television bringing families together and then later comments about television tearing families apart. Which idea is the correct idea? Or does it relate to the time period being discussed. In our present day programming I believe that both would hold true. Certain programs were designed to be accessible to viewers of all ages such as sitcoms, movies of the week, gameshows, and even some reality television. But there are also shows found in the primetime slots that may break up the family viewing time. Shows aimed at bringing in the younger audiences are not very enjoyable for people over the age of 30. These shows are not hard to find, just turn on FOX anytime after seven. But even now I think that television has the capacity to bring families together, even if it is just for an hour a day after supper has been eaten. It is apparent that social changes back in the beginning of television helped shape what programming was offered and also inspired producers of television today, sell sell sell!