To say MTV has changed a lot since its beginnings in 1981 would be an understatement. The channel has gone along to change with the changing world which is understandable'you have to keep up with the times. But when did our society turn into what is reflected in shows like 'Sweet 16,' 'Maui Fever' and 'the Hills'?

Now, now ... I understand. I have to admit I watch these shows too. Actually, these are some of the better shows shown on MTV now. However lately, what used to be a guilty pleasure has turned into disgust. So, is our society just becoming that much more materialistic and shallow or am I actually maturing? I think it may be a combination of both.

I understand that I am, sadly enough, leaving the target audience of MTV, but I feel that certain shows on this channel only reflect everything that is wrong with our society. 'Sweet 16' follows bratty, snobby soon-to-be 16-year-olds around as they plan their 16th birthday party. Common threads tying all the parties together are a ludicrous amount of money spent on one night, drama mixed with a mental breakdown and an expensive car given as a gift to someone that usually doesn't even have their license yet. Am I jealous? Well, yeah ... I mean all I had for my 16th birthday party was case of soda and box of crackers, but that is beside the point.

So here it is (the point). There is nothing wrong with being wealthy or spending a lot of money on a party, but what this show is doing is glamorizing spending a ridiculous amount of money. Basically, money can make you happy and beautiful and get you lots of friends and a great car. You aren't anyone if you don't have the latest and greatest bag or car or whatever..

On my way out of the demographic for MTV, I think about those on their way in. Is this really the type of message that we want to be giving to young, impressionable minds? Whether we know it or not, these messages are leaving an impact on pre-teens and teens, which just feed into a society that revolves around consumption.

And it isn't just MTV. I feel like everywhere I look I can't help but see materialistic goods being glorified. Although the people on the show are only in high school, I hope they know or soon learn that there is more to life than the number of bags collected or the performer that sings at a birthday party.

There is so much more to life, which it seems people forget. Because life is what happens when you are busy planning your 16th birthday party.

Sarah Barnidge
Journalism
Senior