In Retrospect
There are other areas where the two different factions of critics and TV audiences see eye to eye, but I've yet to see much unity between the two when it comes Operation: Save (Insert Your Show Here) or to show their complete ire of the existing ratings systems. The one trait they both share is their overwhelming love for TV, whether its quality programming or not. In the end, everybody is entitled to their opinion in matters of what they love to watch on TV, and in that light, there isn't a right or wrong side/answer/stance when you look at the big picture.
Damian Holbrook states this in the most eloquent manner. "Like everything, TV is subjective. What one viewer likes, another may hate, or not even pay attention to. But it's there for the experiencing, and as long as it gives us experiences, escapes, and even annoyances, TV will continue."
True words, my friends. True words.
Interesting and thoughtful analysis, Mark. I agree with you that there is an apparent chasm between critics and viewers that is somewhat perplexing.
The way I see it, it's more important to state what you like about a show and hope that someone shares that opinion. There is no such thing as a good or bad show; there really is only a good or bad show for you. If TV critics got off their high horse and understand that, we would have less "over-hyping" and more sincere recommendations.
For example, I think Doctor Who is the best show on TV but I also understand why some people will never like it. Taste is a tricky thing.
It sure is, but Doctor Who is seriously that business. :D
If The Game can come back from the dead. Why can a network who want quality television on their network rescue Terriers. (e.g. AE, Spike TV, TNT, TBS,USA)