TV Needs Wider Vision

As a white American, I concur with Lovelace Lee II in his lamentations that there are not more quality dramatic shows featuring black, or partially black, casts (“Good Black Dramas on TV Are Possible,” Counterpunch, April 10). I would, however, like to urge Lee to focus on what makes the TV industry tick before blaming racist conspiracy.

Television is largely geared toward people who would rather sit in a chair and be entertained than make the effort to read a book. Is it surprising most programs insult your intelligence?

The industry is rightly not in the business of social reform; they are there to make money. The perception currently is that ethnic dramas don’t sell. As soon as one becomes a hit, that perception will change and the door will open.

Finally, I would urge Mr. Lee to embrace the process before crying foul. The TV industry is starved for product, and the opportunities (with new cable channels, info highway, foreign sales, etc.) have never been better for diverse programming. We need new voices, new visions for the new century . . . but you have to build a better mousetrap to get attention.

RICHARD BERGER

No Mice Productions

Hollywood