[James]

If the public are more involved in the process of politics through this it might make them less apathetic about politics.

More people probably vote in reality shows than in elections. And there seems - to me - to be a more direct link between the voting intentions in reality shows and what you get out of it at the end, unlike with politicians where the public gets consulted once every 4 or 5 years and that's it. Anything can then be done in your name.

You could say that the voting in Pop Idol 2 was political in a sense. Many people were voting for Michelle to make a statement in the talent versus image debate. So there was a purpose to it even if you didn't think she was the best singer.