TV and the LCD

Critiques argue that in trying to “offend no one,” the networks tend to offer TV programs that appeal to the “lowest common-denominator.” Do you agree? Can you name programs that are definitely for the LCD? Can you think of any network (NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, CW) programs that defy the LCD label? Explain.

I am not certain I understand the definition of "lowest common denominator." I have heard it used with two very different connotations. I have heard people refer to "the lowest common denominator" as the lowest class in society; those with the lowest morals and the fewest inhibitions. I have also heard "the lowest common denominator" used to mean the average person, the most common man. I will therefore answer the prompt in both ways.

"LOWEST COMMON DENOMINATOR:" Dregs of society

I see how one could argue that some television shows appeal to the lowest eschelon of society. For instance, "America's Most Wanted," MTV, and the Simpsons and other shows leave me with a gross and unclassy feeling. However, in general, I think that television shows don't insult the viewers intelligence. There are many classy and uplifting shows with high moral standards. 60 Minutes, the Discovery Channel, and even CNN and FoxNews all appeal to viewers from any social class. There are plenty of classy and impressive shows on TV. I therefore disagree with the statement that television appeals to the lowest social class, or rather, the one with the lowest morals.

"LOWEST COMMON DENOMINATOR": Average Joe

I think television does largely appeal to a wide audience. However, with cable and satellite dishes, the newest generation of television watchers are very diverse. For instance, the cooking channel does not appeal to the "lowest common denominator." The Outdoor Channel does not appeal to the average man. These are specialized shows that target certain audiences, just as magazines have target audiences.

That being said, most news channels (CBS, CNN, NBC) do largely appeal to the average man. Anybody and everybody will watch CNN. The lowest common denominator watches The Office, America's Got Talent, and American Idol. The average person is not offended or disinterested in these shows. Therefore, it is a general guideline that television does appeal to the lowest common denominator, though there are specialized channels that offer unique shows. These allow non-average viewers to see as obscure, amoral, or unconventional television as they might wish.