Shows That Exploit Naive and Borderline Ignorant Folks
COPS
Launched in 1989, COPS is the longest running reality show on TV today. The format is simple. (1) Chase down a petty criminal, preferably one without a shirt, (2) Drive around commenting on trivial investigations, disturbing folks who never ask for a warrant, (3) Drive around some more while reflecting on TV-worthy crime. All in a good days work.
Not accounting for taste, the show has been nominated for an Emmy three times and won the American Television Award in 1993.