KMT 2017 nr 1 Download PDF

Katarzyna Małysz

Colloquiality, vulgarity and aggression in various reality shows on the basis of „Big Brother”

Cite: Katarzyna Małysz, Potoczność, wulgarność i agresja w programach reality show na wybranych przykładach „Big Brothera”, "Kultura - Media - Teologia", 2017( 28) nr 1, s. 50-73.

DOI: 10.21697/kmt.28.4

The aim of this article is to show the informal nature of language in reality shows. They violate human dignity and the basic functions of television. TV, like any medium, should provide the viewers with information, education and entertainment. In this article I have tried to explain what entertainment really is. Mieczyslaw Szymczak, the editor of the dictionary, describes the concept of entertainment as: “a way of relaxation, rest, something enjoyable and cheerful; pleasure combined with relaxation and fun”. The "Big Brother" show is presented as one example of unethical and immoral reality shows. So why has the Big Brother gained so much popularity? What led the audience and the producers? And what affected its participants? What is really meant by "commonness"? These and other questions are going to be answered in this article. Colloquiality in the "Big Brother" was based on: using vulgar words, beating, humiliation, manipulation, entering someone's private or intimate sphere. The idea of the program was as follows - a dozen of people were locked in a big brother’s house which is cut off from the outside world. The ‘housemates’ live together for the a few editions, up to the moment when this "circus" tired of people. The winner could be only one and could get the final cash prize. In my analysis I am willing to show that the program, in spite of such huge popularity, is immoral and worthless. This reality show violates human rights, ethics and has a dangerous psychological impact not only on the participants but also on the audience. What is more, people who took part in the "Big Brother", engaged into politics, media, and journalism in general without having any knowledge about the subject.

About authors

mgr Katarzyna Małysz

ORCID: (nieznany)