This is a course on the politics of reality TV. It introduces a variety of political science concepts, which are then used in discussions and analysis of multiple reality TV subgenres. This course is intended for anyone interested in politics as well as those of us fascinated by reality TV! Students are taught to apply the basic concepts of political science to the genre in a way that illuminates and explains the world of reality TV.  

My classes are intended to promote relevant, interactive discussion.  We will also use the chat function as needed. I will also use short video clips throughout the semester to illustrate various concepts and themes.  

The following is our course schedule (subject to change with advance notice):
Section 1: A Political Science Primer
Week 1: Course introduction -- What is political science? Why is it important? What is reality TV? Why is it so popular?
Week 2: Political Attitudes -- What are they and why do they matter?
Week 3: Political Ideology -- What is it and why does it matter?
Week 4:  Game Theory and Risk Management
Section 2: Reality TV (the shows listed below in parentheses are examples of shows we will be discussing)
Week 5: The History and Evolution of reality TV
Week 6: The Reality of Existence (Survivor, Alone, Naked and Afraid, The Real World, )
Week 7: The Reality of Being Rich (Housewives, Kardashians, Yummy Mummies)
Week 8: The Reality of Love (90 Day Fiancée, The Bachelor, Married at First Sight, Love is Blind, Love on the Spectrum)
Week 9: The Reality of Competition (The Great British Bakeoff, The Amazing Race, Fear Factor, Project Runway, Nailed It)
Week 10: The Reality of Fixing People and their Homes (House Hunters, Selling Sunset, Sparking Joy, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy)