'Dating Game' wasn't social commentary, political analysis, Shakespearean-level drama or even blunt-force comedy. It was just the televised equivalent of meeting someone at a bar. But it appealed to our most basic Darwinian instinct: selecting a good mate. You can't go wrong when a show's premise is hard-wired into human DNA.

In this quote, Seth Shostak analyzes the appeal of the popular television show 'Dating Game', explaining that its premise was not based on high-brow concepts like social commentary, political analysis, or deep drama, but rather on a simple, universally understood concept—meeting someone at a bar. Shostak suggests that the show's formula was straightforward and easy to understand, relying on the basic, instinctual human desire to find a mate. The show's simplicity made it relatable and accessible, appealing to the most basic aspects of human nature.

Shostak also emphasizes that the success of 'Dating Game' was rooted in its connection to Darwinian instincts, specifically the natural human drive to select a compatible and desirable mate. This idea of mate selection is deeply embedded in human biology, and the show’s focus on pairing contestants with one another tapped directly into this instinct. By aligning the premise of the show with a fundamental aspect of human behavior, it made the process of selecting a partner entertaining and engaging for viewers.

The quote also reflects on how the show was successful because its premise was “hard-wired into human DNA,” meaning that the concept of dating and finding a suitable partner is universally appealing. It bypassed complex themes and instead focused on something that almost everyone could relate to: the pursuit of love or attraction. Shostak implies that by targeting this deep-seated instinct, the show was able to draw in a wide audience, regardless of their background or level of interest in other forms of entertainment.

Ultimately, Shostak's quote highlights the enduring popularity of shows like 'Dating Game' by pointing out that they tap into a universal human need, transcending intellectual or cultural boundaries. The simplicity of the show's premise, combined with its connection to human instincts, explains why it was so successful and resonated with so many people.