There's nowt so queer as folk

Love it or hate it, Big Brother is back, unleashing another bizarre mix of strangers on society at large.

It's always uncomfortable viewing watching all those individuals enter a fabricated environment where they have to make small-talk, whilst weighing themselves up against their fellow inmates (sorry housemates) and protecting their egos. Happily, I had more interesting things to do this year than occupy myself with the launch of BB8, (but I suppose that was more coincidence than planning)

Since Big Brother arrived at the start of the 21st Century, one thing I have never understood is why otherwise normal individuals get involved? Their desire for fame (or infamy), personal journey, or resolving of personal issues forces them into the limelight which could lead to the life they really want, but it also could lead to their downfall. Surely it's a big risk to take.

But who am I to wonder, after-all, what are my motives for publishing my comments and providing a snapshot of local and family life on the Internet?

Whatever the BB contestants' motives, this is not the most important aspect of Big Brother. After all, there is an old saying which goes something like "do not judge others until you've walked a mile in their shoes".

What perhaps matters more, is the motivation of the production company that creates the format and that of the broadcasting company that pushes it into our living rooms. Whatever the prize money that they award to the winning contestant (and the production costs in making it all happen), this is probably a drop in the ocean compared to the licensing income, merchandising and advertising opportunities that will come from it.

Funny really, we might be in the 21st Century with all our innovations to boast, but in the entertainment business certain things haven't changed since the 19th Century, as this article on Galloper.com reveals.

At the end of the day, whatever the motivation behind those who enter the house and those who broadcast the show, there will always be a place for Big Brother if we, the public, are motivated to watch and dare I say, comment. I suppose it's back to the age old economic principles of supply meets demand.