Abstract
This research explores the deeper values portrayed and absorbed from reality television, specifically MTV’s long running series Jersey Shore. Through examining statements from cast members and producers from the show, Jersey Shore’s content, and academic text regarding the nature of reality television production and public influence, conclusions regarding the marketability of human beings in tandem with the psychosocial effects of such media were reached. Reality television’s presence within the public domain leads to audiences feeling entitled to pass judgements upon the cast members, while reality television producers themselves compress ordinary people into commodities to be consumed. Such practices harm not only reality television stars, but the social perceptions held by audience members towards individuals who happen to fall under the archetypes embodied by these caricatures. This project prompts discussions regarding the ethical responsibilities of reality television producers and the nature of the entitlement the average viewer feels to callously evaluate real people for entertainment, while simultaneously raising awareness on the importance of media literacy, cultural context, and the acknowledgement of the intentions media publishers harbor.
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