The real question behind Fox’s insta-hit, The X Factor, is NOT:  Will viewers tune in? Of course they will. They’re addicted to Simon and star-making reality shows. Will people tune in to see if Simon’s just as mean as he was on American Idol? Will Paula act doped up and spaced out? The real question [...]

The short answer is, “No, Simon Cowell is not the Anti-Christ,” despite the fact he seems to revel in dashing hopes and crushing dreams. Why do some people think he is? Because our society has increasingly watered down the definition of achievement, rendering recognition and award-getting the norm as opposed to something special. When I [...]