since we only see segments of ilfe or of the country, it is only a small group that any show can represent at any one time, no matter how broad the writers try to be. there are many americans who think according to jim is regressive (and insulting to both it's male and female characters in portraying them as buffoons, but i digress). there are also enough americans out there who related to this show enough that that it made it's way to syndication. go figure... i think as long as the program is enjoyable, and you don't believe stereotypes based on what you saw in said program, then it doesnt really matter all that much.

that being said. i think tv can definitely aid (even if only a little) in bringing about social change.