Yet another refined form of torture

The New York Times reviews (“Oh, Just Answer the Question, Honey”) new reality show on Fox (“Our Little Genius”) giving knowledgeable kids a chance to “win life-changing money for their families” (according to Fox promotional materials). Responding to worries that the contestants might face unhealthy levels of psychological pressure, the producers respond that it will be the parent’s decision as to whether the kid goes to the next level and risks losing all or part of the prize money won. Indeed, human cruelty knows no bounds.