On the contrary, I think we do (generally) like to see wealthy Americans getting caught being bad. Check out mass reactions to celebrity mishaps as an example. Even though we idolize them, we can't help but laugh when they fall. We say it serves them right. And even when a 'star' complains about not having any privacy, we get indignant and say they don't need any with all that money they have.
I think reality shows (like those on cable networks) exploit the dumb.
Ya know, everyone is guilty until proven innocent. The act of arresting someone presumes that they are guilty long before a trial. I was watching COPS the other day and they were filming undercover cops posing as drug dealers. It was ironic that the cops posing as drug dealers were black, but all the arrest from the sting were middle class/upper middle class white men.
Reality shows exploit the poor.
The show Cops will never point their cameras toward wealthy Americans that engage in illegal acts because they have lawyers and powerful connections.
Most people in our nation are not titillated by seeing rich people being roughed up by cops, that would destroy our American dream.
However, our society loves to be entertained by poor people, just look at our history.
Few viewers question primetime exploitation because they believe its quality entertainment.
Just because the show comes on at 8 p.m. does not make it special.