Reality Rules: Self-shaping via Surveillance, Labor, and Gaming in an Interactive Era

Session Submission Type: Panel Discussion

Abstract

Reality television’s success can be understood through its claims to interactivity and its ability to give the “regular” viewer unprecedented access to television’s content, as viewers, voters, online commentators, and even stars. This panel explores the ethical implications of reality television’s intensifying reflexive interactivity. Papers address issues including the alienating effects of self-surveillance, the participatory construction of socialized intellects, the shifting nature of reality celebrities, and the influence of gaming on reality television’s narrative form.

Sub Unit

• Critical and Cultural Studies Division

Chair

• Hugh Curnutt, Univ of Pittsburgh

Session Organizer

• Shawn Miklaucic, DeSales University