Meaning: Les Brown, a prominent businessman, made a thought-provoking statement about the role of television in the modern world. His quote highlights the commercial nature of television, emphasizing that its primary goal is not to facilitate meaningful communication, but rather to attract audiences for advertisers. Brown suggests that people themselves are the commodities, while the television shows serve as mere lures to capture their attention. This perspective sheds light on the intricate relationship between television, audiences, and advertisers, and prompts a deeper examination of the dynamics at play within the realm of broadcast media.

Television has long been recognized as a powerful medium for mass communication, capable of reaching and influencing vast audiences. However, Brown's observation underscores the commercial underpinnings of the television industry, revealing that the pursuit of profit often takes precedence over the genuine exchange of ideas and information. This shift in focus from communication to audience delivery reflects the economic imperatives that shape the landscape of modern television.

The notion that "people are the merchandise, not the shows" encapsulates the commodification of viewers within the television industry. Advertisers are eager to reach specific demographic groups, and television networks strive to deliver these audiences in order to secure advertising revenue. In this context, the viewers themselves become valuable commodities, as their attention and purchasing power are sought after by advertisers. The shows, then, become a means to attract and retain these audiences, serving as vehicles for delivering consumers to the advertisers.

This perspective raises important questions about the impact of commercial interests on the content and programming choices offered by television networks. While artistic and creative endeavors are undoubtedly present within the television landscape, Brown's quote suggests that the ultimate objective is to serve the interests of advertisers by packaging and delivering audiences. This commercial imperative may influence the types of shows that are produced and promoted, potentially shaping the cultural and social narratives that are presented to viewers.

Furthermore, Brown's observation invites scrutiny of the viewer's role within this paradigm. As consumers of television content, audiences are not only the recipients of entertainment and information but also the targets of advertising strategies. The quote prompts reflection on the extent to which viewers are aware of their role as commodities in the television industry, as well as the implications of being positioned as such within the media ecosystem.

In a broader societal context, the commodification of audiences in television raises broader questions about the commercialization of human attention and the potential impact on individual autonomy and agency. As television continues to evolve in the digital age, with the proliferation of streaming services and targeted advertising, the dynamics outlined in Brown's quote remain relevant, if not intensified, in the contemporary media landscape.

In conclusion, Les Brown's quote encapsulates the commercial imperatives that underpin the television industry, shedding light on the dynamic relationship between audiences, shows, and advertisers. By emphasizing the role of television in delivering audiences as commodities, the quote prompts critical reflection on the commercialization of media, the influence on programming choices, and the implications for viewers as consumers. It serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between commerce and communication within the realm of television, inviting further exploration of the societal and cultural implications of this dynamic.