Sociology in Jeopardy

I typically try not to watch TV too much as I think it's a drain on time, but one divine exception is Jeopardy. About three times a week, my roommates Tricia, Jason, and I gather around the TV to vehemently yell out the answers, reveling in a correct answer and cursing a misstep. Tricia and I agree that watching Jeopardy is the best way to appreciate you education, as all the useless facts gained by four years of a liberal arts education is only ever put to use here on Jeopardy.

In 1643 this Dutch navigator became the first European to reach the South Pacific kingdom of Tonga

"Who is Abel Tasman?"

Correct!

However, even better than bolstering my belief that my education was worth the small fortune it cost me, it is a glimpse into American society through the contestants 'jeopardy stories'. During the introduction of the contestants we learn their name, occupation and hometown - but it is after the first round that we hear their Jeopardy story. I never used to listen to the banter between Alex and the contestants, because really - who cares? But then I realized that the stories people tell give a surprising revelation about the character of the individual. Think about it. These people are average American students, professionals, and housewives given their one and only moment of fame. You come on to the show knowing that you have approximately thirty seconds to fill with a story of your choice for all the nation to see - a half minute synopsis of the essence of yourself - how you will be known for all time by viewers across the nation.

Given this, it is extremely entertaining to watch the show and glean information about the contestant based on their story. The story can tell you what kind of person the contestant is, what is important to them, and how they view themselves. Here's some examples.

Story: Proposed to his wife at the Eiffel Tower.
Meaning: He loves his family.

Story: Volunteers at a historical site doing educational programs.
Meaning: Likes giving back with meaningful work.

Story: Showed up to dressed for a toga party, only to find out it wasn't a toga party.
Meaning: He has a sense of humor.


Based on this analysis, what could be made of this real contestant response?

Alex: So Betty, I hear you have advice for out viewers about where not to drive their cars.

Betty: Yes, don't drive your car into a big hole.

Alex: Ah yes, I assume that you learned this from experience. Was you car totaled?

Betty: No, it was fixed.

Alex: Alllright.


I'm convinced that Betty has no life. Anyways, what I took from all of this unnecessary thinking about Jeopardy stories is that if you ask people what their Jeopardy story is, you can get a nice insight into what makes them tick. Try it out sometime.