'Island' mere fun

"Passions," "Saved by the Bell," "Survivor," "Total Request Live" and ESPN commercials.\nThese and more guilty TV pleasures bring laughter into our living rooms and smiles to our faces. And while "Temptation Island" might be a bit more risque than the aforementioned programming, it follows the same lighthearted format, and should be treated as such.\nThe new CBS prime time show ships four couples off to a tropical paradise, testing their commitment to each other with a group of "sexy singles." These couples are at a point in their relationship where they could either stay together, making their relationship stronger, or go their separate ways after their stay on the island. The program should make for interesting viewing, with high drama, lovers' quarrels, inner struggle and, well, sexy singles.\nSome say the show will promote promiscuity and unfaithfulness, suggesting the tests on the island will tear the couples apart. But even if that idea is true, these couples agreed to be on the program and to have their love tested, tempted and taped. Their love lives are their business, even if they decide to display their business on national television. \nWhile some argue the show might expose children and young adults to immoral themes, the show does air during prime time, when young children are in bed and young adults can be supervised. It is up to parents to decide whether the program is suitable for their children. This task is no one else's responsibility.\n As for adults who dislike the perhaps shaky moral ground "Temptation Island" stands on, they can change the channel. Every individual has the right to choose what he or she will watch on television, whether it's PBS programming or pornography.\n With possible actors' and writers' strikes looming on the horizon, the reality TV market is booming. Some shows, notably "Survivor," succeed. Others receive a lukewarm response or fail miserably. (Does anyone remember the "Big Brother" cast?) While network executives are in control of presenting programming, the public decides what shows are fit to watch, and what shows are destined for mid-season cancellation.\nIf you oppose the steamy content or possibly morally questionable format of the show, don't watch it. If you don't want your children to be exposed to adult themes on television, limit their viewing to more age-appropriate programs. It's that simple.