This paper presents evidence that African Americans are underrepresented on American prime time television. This study operationalizes variables-it defines what could otherwise be subjective measures, so that they can be better quantified. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, African Americans represented 13.5% of the U.S. population in 2007. The predicted percentage in 2050 is 15% ("African Americans..."). Using interpolation, the current percentage in 2009 can be estimated to be 13.6%. This number was compared to African American representation in prime time television shows in December 2009.
"Prime time" television shows can be defined as shows that occur between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m., when the largest audience is watching ("Prime Time"). To select a sub-sample, the "Top 100" shows (those with the hi
13 
)
= 556
= 2 (250 words per page)
