Reality TV producers constantly come up with new ways to shock viewers. Unfortunately, their efforts to up the ante sometimes include animal abuse and exploitation. Several reality game shows test contestants' bravery by forcing them to eat live insects, carelessly handle rodents and reptiles or perform other feats involving mistreatment of animals.
Misusing animals for the sole purpose of human entertainment is cruel, wasteful and robs them of their dignity. Displaying this abuse in a playful light desensitizes viewers and invites them to perform similar acts at home. Finally, the portrayal of certain animals on TV makes them seem fearful, dangerous and deserving of abuse. These portrayals are often inconsistent with these animals' natural behaviors.
The Indian Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) recently asked TV channels to stop broadcasting TV shows that depict animal abuse and exploitation. Please urge the FCC to stop animal abuse on reality TV in the United States.
To: The Federal Communications Commission
Reality TV producers constantly come up with new ways to shock viewers. Unfortunately, their efforts to up the ante sometimes include animal abuse and exploitation. We are concerned that several reality game shows broadcast in the United States test contestants' bravery by forcing them to eat live insects, carelessly handle rodents and reptiles or perform other feats involving mistreatment of animals.
Misusing animals for the sole purpose of human entertainment is cruel, wasteful and robs them of their dignity. Displaying this abuse in a playful light desensitizes viewers and invites them to perform similar acts at home. Finally, the portrayal of certain animals on TV makes them seem fearful, dangerous and deserving of abuse. These portrayals are often inconsistent with these animals' natural behaviors.
The Indian Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) recently asked TV channels to stop broadcasting TV shows that depict animal abuse and exploitation. We urge you to follow in their footsteps and stop animal abuse on reality TV in the United States.
