The Impact of Television Shows on Understanding Black Culture: Reflections on Sanford and Son, Good Times, and What's Happening

Do viewers gain any understanding of black culture through watching classic television shows such as Sanford and Son, Good Times, and What's Happening? This is a question that has sparked much debate over the years, and it's a deeply personal one, as it touches on the representations of a marginalized community in media.

The Entertainment Value vs. Cultural Understanding

No, the cultural insights viewers gain from these shows are often limited and, at times, superficial. These stereotypical programs, designed more for entertainment than cultural education, primarily focused on delivering generous paychecks to their casts and crews. While they offered some entertainment value, they painted a one-dimensional and sometimes unflattering picture of black life.

The Role of Experience in Understanding Culture

Given my background as someone not born in or associated with a city, I have had to rely on second-hand experiences and media portrayals to form my understanding of black culture. For instance, during my teenage years, I only had a few black friends in my predominantly white rural/suburban town, and the opportunity to visit a black family's home was very limited. The shows I watched, such as Sanford and Son, Good Times, and What's Happening, thus served as a necessary virtual experience that bridged this gap in my real-life understanding.

The Evolution of Portrayal and Criticism

The portrayal of black individuals in these shows has evolved significantly over time. At one point, media critics were concerned that shows like Good Times did not depict black teenagers as gang members. Today, such portrayals would be met with anger and criticism, with the non-Black, woke media insisting on determining how black people should be portrayed on TV. The irony is that both sides are equally clueless about the real experiences of black individuals.

The Changing Landscape

While these shows offer a glimpse into the lives of black individuals, it's important to recognize that they represent only a narrow slice of life. The evolution of media portrayals has led to a more nuanced understanding of black life, especially in recent years. For instance, the acceptance of the LGBTQ community in media has seen significant progress, moving from ridiculed to portrayed with respect and empathy.

The Complexity of Black Culture

The term "black culture" is not monolithic. It encompasses a myriad of experiences and backgrounds. For example, the culture of Usain Bolt is vastly different from that of Pele, the ex-Brazilian football player, or the Zulu culture in South Africa. Similarly, the culture of black people in Alabama, my family's culture growing up in Nairobi, and the culture of people in Papua New Guinea are all distinct and complex.

Conclusion

While television shows like Sanford and Son, Good Times, and What's Happening may not provide a comprehensive understanding of black culture, they have helped bridge the gap in awareness and acceptance. Shows can and do play a significant role in shaping societal perceptions. As media continues to evolve, we can hope for more diverse and nuanced representations of black life, contributing to a more inclusive and accepting society.