'Den svenska dokusåpan' : Journalism, Criticism, and the Ethical Legacy of (Swedish) Reality TV

What can a retrospective of Swedish reality television history – and its critical reception – tell us about ethics? In this essay, we explore the relationship between (cultural) journalism, documentary film, and reality television, with particular attention to how ethical dimensions are negotiated within journalistic discourse. Focusing on the critical reception of Den svenska dokusåpan, a documentary produced by the Swedish public service broadcaster SVT that reflects on the history of reality TV, we argue that ethical debates surrounding reality television are as enduring as the genre itself. Revisiting this history highlights persistent concerns and underscores the need for continued scrutiny. Documentaries such as the one discussed here help keep discussions about responsible media practices alive, although their ethical arguments are often articulated in rather broad or vague terms. Ultimately, ethical issues surrounding reality television are collectively negotiated across both old and new media formats.