A question for the masses...
Last Night, I was interviewed for the 3rd time by the Univ of Maryland Journalism Undergrad. During the interview, he asked a question that I couldn't really answer other than by giving him 2 POSSIBLE reasons and one doesn't even come with/as an explanation.
The Question: What is it that makes people want to watch sideshow performances? Especially the overly gross/dangerous acts.
My 2 answers:
1: The same reason people can't look away from a train wreck... or say they go to the hockey games for the fights... or watch NASCAR for the wrecks.
2: To feel better about themselves. Afterall, if a 'normal' person is able to watch someone else in danger/pain... then it is a self affirmation that at least it's not them and that they are better off.
Any ideas? Further thoughts? If you're a fan of Sideshow.... why do YOU watch?
The Question: What is it that makes people want to watch sideshow performances? Especially the overly gross/dangerous acts.
My 2 answers:
1: The same reason people can't look away from a train wreck... or say they go to the hockey games for the fights... or watch NASCAR for the wrecks.
2: To feel better about themselves. Afterall, if a 'normal' person is able to watch someone else in danger/pain... then it is a self affirmation that at least it's not them and that they are better off.
Any ideas? Further thoughts? If you're a fan of Sideshow.... why do YOU watch?