Reality TV and bomb 'worst ideas'

Reality TV is rated as the second worst idea of all time behind the atom bomb, according to a survey.

They were followed by capital punishment, plastic bags and credit cards in the survey of more than 1,000 readers of the 24 Hour Museum website.

The wheel was voted the best idea followed by the internet while Leonardo da Vinci was rated as the historical figure responsible for the best ideas.

The poll was carried out to celebrate Museums and Galleries month.

The theme of this year's month-long event is ideas and innovation.

'Fascinating insight'

Some 51% said the atom bomb was the worst idea compared with the 19% who voted for reality television.

WORST IDEAS

• The atom bomb - 51%
• Reality television - 19%
• Capital punishment - 14%
• Plastic bags - 7%
• Credit card - 5%

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And 32% voted for the wheel as the best idea compared with the 23% who said the internet.

The survey also found that 49% of respondents thought museums were the best way to preserve people's best ideas, followed by libraries, with 27%, and digital records - 15%.

Lloyd Grossman, chairman of event organiser The Campaign for Museums, said museums and galleries played "a unique role in preserving and displaying some of the greatest innovations and ideas in the history of mankind".

"The results offer a fascinating insight into the figures and ideas from the past which are most significant to us," he added.

"It raises some interesting questions about how we will preserve our own ideas and innovations for the future."

RELATED INTERNET LINKS
24 Hour Museum
Campaign for Museums
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