Not So Realistic Reality Show Concepts

I'm not a regular follower of "The Bachelor," the reality show- the first in a much too extensive series- about finding love. However, I heard this season's finale had a much publicized shocking twist so I decided to tune in. Watching, I wondered who came up with the concept of this show? While now there are far more ridiculous concepts on reality TV shows- anyone remember ABC's "Are You Hot?"or Fox's "The Littlest Groom"- this one has managed to maintain ratings and keep viewers entertained for fifteen seasons. Other successful reality TV shows actually have sensible premises such as physical and mental competitions on shows like "The Amazing Race" and "Survivor." It's interesting that the creator of "The Bachelor" thought the concept of 25 girls all dating the same guy, with the intent of him falling in love with and marrying one, would work. Most reality programs chronicle traditions that have been happening for centuries- competitions in singing, dancing, triathlons- and yet somehow this shows continues to pull in ratings even though it revolves around a concept that has never been a part of our reality. And if tonight's finale taught me anything, it is that this concept does not work, at least not 13 out of 14 times (only one couple thus far has stayed together). In tonight's show, the guy, a father and seemingly all around good guy, chose and proposed to one girl, only to confess to America and then her on the after-special that he had realized he was in love with the runner-up. It was shocking, but even more shocking is the fact that people will keep competing on the show, and America will keep watching. Season 16, here we come...