American Idol=American Dream?

The TV sensation American Idol is once again returning for another season this fall. It first aired in 2002, and while its popularity is currently waning, there's no doubt that millions upon millions of Americans rave over this show. The show highlights some of the most picturesque American stories: small town guys and gals that have been working hard their whole lives get a chance to take a national stage and represent their family and hometown. The winner receives a singing career and fame for the rest of their life.
One has to wonder, though, how much of the show is constructed to maximize emotion, and maximize profits?


On the surface, American Idol embodies ideal American values: hard work, social mobility, faith, and in the end, fame. Speaking of fame, what does "American Idol" even mean? The word "idol" means "an object or representation of a god used for warship". Perhaps the "representation" in the show is the winner, and the "god" is the American Dream. Perhaps each contestant isn't going up on the stage to represent themselves, but to fill the role that society wants them to fill. The producers realize this role appeals to our emotions, which is why Idol was one of the highest-earning shows on television. And what happens to the people that don't fit the part? "Weirdos" and "crazies" are always laughed at during auditions and are forgotten the moment they are off camera.

The short career that the winners do have is littered with contracts and ends up becoming more of a business than an art. Can you see the product placement in Idol winner Lee DeWyze's video "Sweet Serendipity"? It's pretty blatant.

Is American Idol truly looking for new talent, or is there a hidden agenda that favors profits?