I’m a big fan of this show as well. I like really like the sense of “honor” between the judges and contestants. The show is indeed a good lesson in civility.

I also like watching reality shows of different occupations. From fishermen to tow-truck operators to butchers. I get a real sense of appreciation for the various skills these workers get with such jobs. Contrary to the prefessional and white collar classes, you just can’t get these skills off the street.

Unfortunately these blue collar skills are not all that transferable between occupations. A good work ethic and sense of excellence are more important.

As for the coming apocalypse, I would prefer that we start building a new system of governance to prevent a future dystopia. Maybe the TV people can build a reality show of the early TDG buiders building their TDG.