Survivor: Cambodia

Thank you for your response Svengali. I confess it has been difficult to sort through my own motives. But I'm convinced at this point that my preference for newbie seasons is rooted in at least two core values.

First, Mark Burnett and Jeff Probst (et al) have pointed out from the very start that the genius of the show is that it is a social experiment. Having to assess and evaluate a group of diverse strangers with no prior information makes for fascinating interactions. That is lost when some or all of the players have prior knowledge of one another and their style of play.

Second, no matter how careful SEG is about who they put on the show, there are conversations and alliances that are made before return players arrive. Quite a number of these people know each other, they already know who they like and don't like, who they want to work with and not. In my view, this changes the game to something I like far less.

I agree with you that often returning players are more savvy and have a better understanding of strategy. Playing the game already certainly gives an edge there. That being said, I believe that is avoidable with different casting. Casting isn't primarily interested in putting great competitors on the show. They are looking for entertainment and good looks. One can hardly blame them, that is what users often seem to respond to.

I'm not sure what the "themes" of the next season or two may be. For my part, these seem more like gimmicks. I want a diverse group of people (racially, geographically, chronologically, and careers) who understand the game well and who all come prepared to win the game. Coming in as a group of strangers levels the playing field and makes the social component of the game that much more intriguing.