In Business Since 2001 We accept Paypal
Home Article Directory
More from Bill Platt
"Bill Platt for Book Authors" Youtube Channel
Training for Book Authors
Other Resources for Book Authors & Publishers
FictionPlots.com (350+ Plots & counting)
Please Support Our Advertisers

 
D9 Hosting


Why Did The American Public Fall In Love With William Hung?

Copyright (c) 2007-2023

The early rounds of American Idol, are clearly geared more towards amusement than actual talent. Generally, the performances of the great musicians that get their tickets punched to Hollywood are not shown. What we do see however, are the shameless contestants who don't have an ounce of talent --- contestants like William Hung. We tune in to watch them squirm and embarrass themselves in front of millions of viewers. The producers of shows like American Idol could care less about the humiliation that contestants face, as they are simply a means towards financial and commercial success.

The reason why the early tryout rounds bring in the big draw of American Idol viewers, has to do with the fact that people want to see the judges put contestants through painful, embarrassing, and humiliating situations for the rest of us to watch - and, presumably, laugh at and be entertained by. We then continue to laugh out loud as Simon Cowell insults and boots them off the stage.

It is almost encoded in a human brain to always focus on and find amusement in someone elses suffering. In fact, American Idol appeals to our baser instincts, including our perverse pleasure in seeing other people fail. A satisfactory explanation for man's inhumanity to man may never be reached. We always seem to want to see people do badly, and oftentimes we view these contestants as less than human.

The discussion can extend to other areas besides the realm of American Idol. The idea of laughing at someone slipping on a banana peel or taking pleasure in the downfall of an enemy taps into the same kind of emotions that we experience while watching Idol. Perhaps we are simply happy that these bad things aren't happening to us, but it is okay as long as it's to someone else.

So what causes us to derive entertainment from the suffering of others? The attitude of wanting others to fail means that we are allowing others to control our reactions and emotions. Wanting to see another person embarrass themselves is really a way of seeking satisfaction when our hopes or ideals are not met. Instead of mocking an individual who totaly butchers a song, what we really need to do is appropriately examine ourselves.

We need to ask ourselves what the payoff is for seeing someone crash and burn. Why do we keep wanting the worst for others. Perhaps because we cannot bear to see others succeed, we stand and cheer so hard for their demise. Perhaps we do not know or believe that there can be anything better than supporting a stranger in their quest for a dream.

Perhaps we enjoy seeing others as villains. Perhaps we enjoy feeling a sense of power while watching others be in a vulnerable situation. Watching someone torn down allows us to sit back in our couches and have reassurance in our own personal happiness. We simply get pleasure at other people's pain.

Others have tried to put a positive spin in trying to explain this phenomenon. It's been said that by watching others fail, that we are really trying to learn by watching people overcome fears and acquire something that would otherwise seem impossible. If they can do it, maybe I can too. It has been said that we tend to learn more about how to conduct ourselves from watching people fail than we do from watching them succeed. So, by watching people make complete idiots of themselves on American Idol, we might end up feeling a lot more normal, and reinforcing a positive sense of self by acknowledging that at least we are not as weird as they are. Perhaps by watching hundreds of contestants fail, we will in turn get motivated and engaged in our own reality.

However, it is almost impossible to argue about our appeal of seeing people fail without pointing out that the contestants on American Idol for example, put themselves in this situation in the first place. Many of these contestants waited in line for hours for an opportunity to follow their dreams.

The only explanation that seems to remain on this issue deals with the fact that today's society is becoming one where personal interactions are almost non-existent. We feel no connection to the rest of the world, and this makes it very easy to objectify each other and fail to experience sympathy and empathy when others around us suffer.


About The Author: Shop Amazon - Top Gift Ideas
Trent Lampe writes about entertainment and its impact on the world. Hands down, American Idol has been one of the most profitable and influential shows on television. Some pundits and commentators reflect that American Idol is bringing out the worst America has to offer, while others say that it reflects the best of America. Who is right? American Idol Unauthorized is an uncensored view into the world of American Idol behind the cameras. Is American Idol good clean fun, or just dirty, backroom politics? You be the judge. Buy the DVD today: http://www.idolunauthorized.com and discover the truth for yourself.

VOTE ON THIS ARTICLE
Needs Work >> 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 << Excellent Article

Tell our authors what you think about their article.



Top-Level Category: Arts and Entertainment Articles

10 Most Recent Articles Written by Trent Lampe

Countdown Of The Top Ten American Idol Recording Contracts
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-04-05 | Word Count: 707 | Page Views: 7670 | Votes: 19 | Rating: 2.37
The list of former American Idol contestant's album sales, dramatically shows the commercial success that has been shared by many of the hit TV show's alumni. It is becoming evident that any associations with American Idol can mean an increased level of success. Although there is no guarantee that being a contestant on American Idol leads to recording sales success, many music executives are taking note of how much influence the show has on music.

Seeking Three Minutes Of Fame And Attention On American Idol
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-04-03 | Word Count: 771 | Page Views: 4705 | Votes: 15 | Rating: 2.67
With the American Idol marvel currently taking place, one cannot ignore the appeal of the general public for fame. If you were to poll a typical teenager, you would discover that most youngsters consider fame as a sign of success in life. In-fact, modern-day celebrity has become a phenomenon, fueled by what seems to be an all-time high in the quest for recognition and stardom.

The Business of American Idol and The Making Of A Star
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-29 | Word Count: 689 | Page Views: 5133 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 1.38
The culture around pop music is constantly changing, and American Idol looks to be at the forefront of that change. The making of the next American pop star will without doubt go through American Idol. Idol will churn out the most savvy, musically talented individual possible.

American Idol Contestants – Where Are They Now?
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-27 | Word Count: 719 | Page Views: 33677 | Votes: 24 | Rating: 2.13
Before her appearance on American Idol, no one knew of Kelly Clarkson and her musical gift. But since claiming the title of the first American Idol, Clarkson has even surpassed that label, and has become an established voice in the music industry. But the question that many people have is: From Clarkson, Underwood, Studdard, Hicks, and Fantasia, where are they all now?

American Idol Has Influenced The Music Industry In A Positive Way
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-22 | Word Count: 731 | Page Views: 13985 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 1.21
It would almost seem that the format of American Idol wasn't intended to play a key role in the music industry. But after its all been said and done, it appears that American Idol actually produces quality singers who go on to collect prestigious musical awards, such as the Grammy and perhaps even the Oscar.

Why Do Friends Let Friends Embarrass Themselves On American Idol?
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-20 | Word Count: 827 | Page Views: 5362 | Votes: 12 | Rating: 2.00
After seeing some atrocious performances on American Idol, we are always left wondering whether we would ever let our own friends embarrass themselves on this show and in this manner. How is it that people allow their friends to be victims of American Idol? If a friend is clearly tone-deaf but wants to audition for American Idol, friends or family members should intervene and not let this non-talented pal audition for the show. It is just not right to allow them to go on TV and embarrass themselves by butchering a classic song.

American Idol Creates Entertainment Careers, Even For The Losers
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-14 | Word Count: 759 | Page Views: 17827 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 1.70
At this year's Oscars, Jennifer Hudson won the supporting-actress Academy Award for her role on Dreamgirls. Nobody could have ever projected this sort of success for last year's American Idol finalist. But this story only adds to the long and illustrious careers that have been created by American Idol.

How American Idol Successfully Changes Average People Into Stars
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-02-16 | Word Count: 956 | Page Views: 3992 | Votes: 18 | Rating: 1.72
Once a year, millions of Americans gather in front of their televisions to learn who will be the next American Idol. 9.9 million viewers watched the very first American Idol episode in 2002. By the end of that first season, more than 22 million viewers sat down to watch Kelly Clarkson be crowned the first American Idol. As season five came to an end, 36 million viewers were on hand to watch Taylor Hicks be crowned the season five winner.

American Idol Breeds Success and Controversy
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-02-09 | Word Count: 1287 | Page Views: 4826 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 1.11
During the early days of 2002, the only people who had ever heard of the American Idol were the numerous television executives who had decided that this show had no future. Can you imagine what it would be like to be one of the television executives that had decided to take a pass on American Idol? Can you imagine what it must feel like every time they see someone on T.V. talking about American Idol? Wow! That would bite.

All of Author's Articles on this site:

Most Recent "Arts And Entertainment" Articles

Will 3D Gaming Ever Become Mainstream?
Written by: Titus Hoskins | Distributed: 2011-06-28 | Word Count: 719 | Page Views: 7461 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 0.67
Will 3D gaming and 3D entertainment ever become mainstream - a prominent feature in our daily lives? Lately, there has been a renewed interest in all things 3D and while it is winning a few battles, can it truly win the war? Read this eye-popping article to discover the answer!

Music and Humor
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-07-29 | Word Count: 914 | Page Views: 6130 | Votes: 5 | Rating: 0.60
Music and humor can intersect in one of three ways. The first way is when serious artists get clever. This would be The Who's "Squeeze Box," The Ramones "I Want to be Sedated," or Aerosmith's "Dude Looks Like a Lady."

'Dukes of September Rhythm Revue' Tour
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-07-28 | Word Count: 548 | Page Views: 7439 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 0.33
The Dukes of September play jazz-rock and blue-eyed soul while covering artists like Little Anthony, David Ruffin and Curtis Mayfield. The Dukes of Stratosphear were the alter egos of the British rock band XTC. And they are on tour this year...

Six Broadway Shows You Must See
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-04-29 | Word Count: 643 | Page Views: 5772 | Votes: 5 | Rating: 1.00
Even those living in a cave know that Wicked, The Lion King and Chicago are Broadway's hottest tickets. But they're not the only entertainment on the Great White Way. Below, BSTLV looks at eight other Broadway shows you should definitely check out. These eight productions range from timeless revivals to brand new dramatic works that are destined to become Broadway classics.

The Top 10 Amusement Parks in America
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-04-21 | Word Count: 1163 | Page Views: 7528 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 0.83
The deciding factor in selecting the top ten amusement parks in America was the answer to the following question: is the park worth a trip across country? If the park is in Florida is it worth the trip from the West Coast? If the park is in California is it worth the journey from Boston or Baltimore? If the answer was yes, the park qualified for inclusion.

Jimmy Buffett and His 'Under the Big Top' Tour
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-03-15 | Word Count: 500 | Page Views: 6133 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 0.33
This is Buffett's umpteenth tour of North America and it's supporting his latest release, "Buffet Hotel." That's not a misspelling. "Buffet Hotel" is the name of a hotel in the landlocked nation of Mali. Buffett discovered the hotel on a recent trip to West Africa.

Welcome to Sugarland - Sugarland's 'Incredible Machine Tour'
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-03-14 | Word Count: 598 | Page Views: 15939 | Votes: 4 | Rating: 0.25
The incredibly successful Sugarland has released three studio albums, all of which have reached multi-platinum status. A fourth is scheduled to drop this summer.

To Be Inked Or Not To Be Inked? Choose Wisely
Written by: Bree Levine | Distributed: 2010-02-24 | Word Count: 537 | Page Views: 6986 | Votes: 4 | Rating: 0.25
Is getting a tattoo right for everyone? There are some wise dos and don'ts that go with the idea of a tattoo.

Michael Jackson Vs Prince
Written by: Ov Guy | Distributed: 2010-01-12 | Word Count: 737 | Page Views: 5924 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 1.40
What is the real story behind the Michael Jackson vs. Prince rivalry? On our new website, we present the answer from people who were there and saw what was going on first hand. In this article, we crack open the door that hides the truth of how the music industry works behind the scenes, so that consumers might better understand why their favorite musicians do not grace the airwaves as often as they otherwise would...

Live Nation Linking To Ticket Brokers
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2009-12-31 | Word Count: 501 | Page Views: 4808 | Votes: 5 | Rating: 1.20
At the time of this writing (late 2009) Live Nation's website is linking to tickets held by brokers. This isn't a move to bolster its online marketing. The world's largest promoter of concerts says it's a move to better serve their customers. But there may be more to this story...

Most Viewed "Arts And Entertainment" Articles

American Idol Contestants – Where Are They Now?
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-27 | Word Count: 719 | Page Views: 33677 | Votes: 24 | Rating: 2.13
Before her appearance on American Idol, no one knew of Kelly Clarkson and her musical gift. But since claiming the title of the first American Idol, Clarkson has even surpassed that label, and has become an established voice in the music industry. But the question that many people have is: From Clarkson, Underwood, Studdard, Hicks, and Fantasia, where are they all now?

Movie Posters and Entertainment Memorabilia Can Be Money In The Bank
Written by: Ralph Deluca | Distributed: 2008-09-25 | Word Count: 889 | Page Views: 23335 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 2.71
With rare exceptions, such as some of the Batman movie posters, most new release movie posters can be purchased for as little as $15-$20. With this knowledge in hand, most people look at movie posters with a sense of ho-hum when thinking about entertainment memorabilia and collectibles. But the big picture is much more enticing.

How to Attend TV Show Tapings
Written by: Jordan McAuley | Distributed: 2007-02-20 | Word Count: 1702 | Page Views: 22942 | Votes: 37 | Rating: 2.51
Shows you how to attend free television show tapings in Los Angeles, New York, and the U.K.

Why People Gamble
Written by: Skyler Ace | Distributed: 2009-07-29 | Word Count: 721 | Page Views: 21341 | Votes: 23 | Rating: 2.57
Gambling is an instinct inherent in all of us. We all gamble. Even if you have never placed a bet in your life, you are still a gambler. Don't believe it? Let's see...

Rob Thomas, His Wife, and Her Diamonds
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2009-09-01 | Word Count: 581 | Page Views: 19992 | Votes: 31 | Rating: 1.58
Rob Thomas' latest album, Cradlesong, deals with dark issues and adult themes but none is more serious than the illness inflicting his wife Marisol (Maldonado) Thomas. Marisol suffers from a rare autoimmune disorder and her plight was Thomas' muse for Cradlesong's first single, "Her Diamonds."

American Idol Creates Entertainment Careers, Even For The Losers
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-14 | Word Count: 759 | Page Views: 17827 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 1.70
At this year's Oscars, Jennifer Hudson won the supporting-actress Academy Award for her role on Dreamgirls. Nobody could have ever projected this sort of success for last year's American Idol finalist. But this story only adds to the long and illustrious careers that have been created by American Idol.

Welcome to Sugarland - Sugarland's 'Incredible Machine Tour'
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-03-14 | Word Count: 598 | Page Views: 15939 | Votes: 4 | Rating: 0.25
The incredibly successful Sugarland has released three studio albums, all of which have reached multi-platinum status. A fourth is scheduled to drop this summer.

American Idol Has Influenced The Music Industry In A Positive Way
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-03-22 | Word Count: 731 | Page Views: 13985 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 1.21
It would almost seem that the format of American Idol wasn't intended to play a key role in the music industry. But after its all been said and done, it appears that American Idol actually produces quality singers who go on to collect prestigious musical awards, such as the Grammy and perhaps even the Oscar.

In Broad Daylight--Who Killed Ken McElroy?
Written by: Harry N. MacLean | Distributed: 2007-01-30 | Word Count: 739 | Page Views: 13798 | Votes: 38 | Rating: 2.37
The killing of Ken Rex McElroy could well be the hottest cold case on record. On the morning of July 10, 1981, he was shot to death as he sat in his pickup on the main street of Skidmore, Missouri. Forty-five townspeople witnessed the killing. All denied seeing the shooters. After three grand juries and an eight-month FBI investigation, no one was indicted. Twenty-five years later, still no one has been charged with the murder.

Fourth Of July Flowers
Written by: Wesley Berry, AAF | Distributed: 2008-06-25 | Word Count: 429 | Page Views: 10373 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 1.86
Your Fourth of July celebration could begin and end with a real bang when you use flowers to accent and decorate the day. If you're thinking you need to stick with the traditional red, white, and blue carnation arrangements you normally see on Independence Day, think again! Flowers come in so many varieties and they're so easy to customize to the occasion that the possibilities are endless.

Highest Ranked "Arts And Entertainment" Articles

Movie Posters and Entertainment Memorabilia Can Be Money In The Bank
Written by: Ralph Deluca | Distributed: 2008-09-25 | Word Count: 889 | Page Views: 23335 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 2.71
With rare exceptions, such as some of the Batman movie posters, most new release movie posters can be purchased for as little as $15-$20. With this knowledge in hand, most people look at movie posters with a sense of ho-hum when thinking about entertainment memorabilia and collectibles. But the big picture is much more enticing.

Seeking Three Minutes Of Fame And Attention On American Idol
Written by: Trent Lampe | Distributed: 2007-04-03 | Word Count: 771 | Page Views: 4705 | Votes: 15 | Rating: 2.67
With the American Idol marvel currently taking place, one cannot ignore the appeal of the general public for fame. If you were to poll a typical teenager, you would discover that most youngsters consider fame as a sign of success in life. In-fact, modern-day celebrity has become a phenomenon, fueled by what seems to be an all-time high in the quest for recognition and stardom.

Why People Gamble
Written by: Skyler Ace | Distributed: 2009-07-29 | Word Count: 721 | Page Views: 21341 | Votes: 23 | Rating: 2.57
Gambling is an instinct inherent in all of us. We all gamble. Even if you have never placed a bet in your life, you are still a gambler. Don't believe it? Let's see...

What is the Trans-Siberian Orchestra?
Written by: Mark Anderson | Distributed: 2008-11-05 | Word Count: 708 | Page Views: 7598 | Votes: 16 | Rating: 2.56
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, often called TSO, is a rock orchestra founded in the mid-1990s. The band's style is very hard to describe, as it incorporates elements of classical musical, heavy metal, symphonic metal and progressive rock. While the Trans-Siberian Orchestra is based in New York City, it often tours around the world. That means that people in unusual and obscure locations may get the chance to experience this unique sound.

How to Attend TV Show Tapings
Written by: Jordan McAuley | Distributed: 2007-02-20 | Word Count: 1702 | Page Views: 22942 | Votes: 37 | Rating: 2.51
Shows you how to attend free television show tapings in Los Angeles, New York, and the U.K.

Carrie Underwood: Paving Her Way to Stardom
Written by: Mark Anderson | Distributed: 2008-02-21 | Word Count: 581 | Page Views: 6593 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 2.50
Country music darling and American Idol winner Carrie Underwood was born and raised on a farm in Oklahoma. Carrie was born in 1983 on March 10th. Carrie Marie Underwood was destined to become a country music star.

Brokeback Mountain Filming - Pictures and Review
Written by: Travel Alberta | Distributed: 2006-12-12 | Word Count: 1400 | Page Views: 8168 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 2.43
Already viewed by more people than any of the other of this year's Oscar contenders, Brokeback has splayed some of Alberta's most stunning geography on silver screens the world over.

Marketing for Wedding Photographers: 5 Attract More Wedding Clients Packages
Written by: Lesley Mattos | Distributed: 2006-08-17 | Word Count: 421 | Page Views: 5375 | Votes: 12 | Rating: 2.42
While professional photographers shoot many types of events, many are coming up with unique ideas and incentives to offer their wedding clients, which are giving them an edge over their competitors.

Guide To The Best Bands To See Live
Written by: Bret Robson | Distributed: 2007-10-17 | Word Count: 788 | Page Views: 5891 | Votes: 19 | Rating: 2.42
There are five UK bands that deliver legendary performances to their audiences time and time again. Buy a concert ticket for one of these acts, and you will never come away disappointed.

Britney Spears Second Baby Is Cause For Big Bouquets Of Flowers
Written by: Wesley Berry, AAF | Distributed: 2008-02-25 | Word Count: 432 | Page Views: 4369 | Votes: 20 | Rating: 2.40
There's been a baby boom in the world of entertainment, and the latest of these little stars is Sutton Pierce, the son of pop mega-star Britney Spears and her husband, rapper Kevin Federline. Baby Sutton was born on September 12th, 2006 via caesarean section some time around 2 a.m. He is the second son born to the couple; his older brother Sean Preston turned one-year-old just days after Sutton's birth. While the birth of the baby certainly makes Spears and her family deliriously happy, high-end gift retailers are probably thrilled, too. You see, the latest trend in gift giving is to give extravagant gifts at the birth of a new baby.











Download an eBook today
 
Directory Navigation
Locate By Category:

ALL Categories
Arts & Crafts
Arts & Entertainment
Automotive
Business - Offline
Business - Online
Career
Computers
Education
Family
Finance
Food & Drink
Health & Wellness
Home & Garden
Humor
Internet
Nature & Pets
Real Estate
Religion
Self Improvement
Shopping
Society
Sports & Recreation
Technology
Travel & Leisure
Uncategorized
World Events
Writing & Speaking

Change Number of Results:
50 - 100 - 200 - 500
Article Reprint Rights
Creative Commons License

This work is
licensed under a
Creative Commons
License


You are not required to show the creative commons license notice when you reprint this work.
Article Statistics
Word Count: 738

Total Views: 3956

Article Rating: 1.69 of 5
Votes Cast: 16

More Articles By Author:



Last Distribution Date:
2007-03-13 18:00:00

Internal ID: #4536





All Articles are Copyright © 2001-2023 of the Defined Authors.

All other material and images on this site are:
Copyright © 2001-2023, ThePhantomWriters.com