While it may be hard to actually prove that truth is stranger than fiction, a look at recent network television ratings proves something else: truth is certainly more popular … at least for the time being.

Survivor, the reality-based program aired by CBS where strangers rough it on a deserted island until only one stands, occupied the number one spot for the week of July 2. And since its debut, it’s been consistently beating out previous power, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.

Attempting to seize on this new phenomenon, network executives have responded by putting as many as 12 more new shows into development, all featuring some variation on the theme of “real people placed in unique environment, competing for either money, fame or both.” In fact, CBS has already debuted a second show, Big Brother, to high ratings last Wednesday night.

Surprisingly, big networks aren’t the only ones getting into the act. PBS is currently airing 1900 House, where cameras are fixed on a real family who are forced to live in an old house without any of the conveniences we have grown accustomed to, including TVs, microwaves … even running water.

So how do you explain the sudden obsession with reality-based TV? What, if anything, does this say about our society? And how do you feel about the shows themselves? Here are some of the other issues to consider:

• While these shows boast names like The Real World, and even carry the label of “reality-based programs,” how real do you think they actually are? When cameras and money are introduced into the situation, is it still possible for the situation to stay “real"? 

• Would you behave differently if you knew all of your actions and thoughts would be broadcast to millions of people, or do you think you would forget about the cameras after awhile? 

• Have our attitudes toward personal privacy changed over the years, or have we always been a nation of voyeurs? 

• What does this sudden surge in popularity for reality-based TV mean for the future of television in general? Are the sitcom and the drama on the verge of becoming dead art forms?  

• Finally, what is your personal opinion of reality-based TV? Are you a fan of any of the shows? What is it about these shows that you like and/or dislike?