Week 2 Indexes

According to Shwalbe, learning to read or interpret an index sociologically is to see its connection to some aspect of how the social world works. There are many obvious and nonobvious indexes in the world.

One of the more obvious indexes about how the social world works are reality tv shows. For example reality shows such as "Dancing with the Stars" or "The Bachelor". The tv ratings of these shows demonstrate that millions of people are putting time aside to watch these reality shows that really have no value. The reality show "The Bachelor" is an index to why some women are still oppressed or not treated with respect. On the show twenty five women or more are all put into a house to fight over one man's heart. This show that is broadcast to millions of women is showing them how its okay to be desperate and have low self esteem. Shows like this influence girls today, eventhough they may watch it and find it ridiculous, they have still been exposed to this behavior that has been deemed okay since it is allowed on television for all to see. This index can explain why so many young girls today are dealing with low self esteem issues all the way to severe depression. The television network broadcasts whatever show brings in the rating without being sociologically mindful of who their show may be effecting.