More rational than Season Two...I think

"Doomsday Preppers" is a TV series shown on National Geographic Channel, featuring survivalists or "preppers". I've only seen a few episodes of the first season, but so far the people interviewed seem more rational than the characters shown in season two.

For starters, these survivalists are usually preparing for a worldwide economic collapse, an event which probably will happen (although one can discuss how, when and how fast). The idea that China will pull the debt plug on the United States sounds unrealistic, while the general fears about a debt-ridden economy are well-grounded. Add peak oil to the dish, and...well, you get the picture. Even the disabled guy who preps for solar flares wiping out all electricity on Earth isn't completely irrational - apparently, a major EMP event *could* happen, although experts generally feel that it might be another 500 years until next time...

The preppers in this season also seem better prepared than the hopefully scripted crazies in the second round. One of them is an elite soldier who trains his own militia group. Another is a "soccer mom" who tries to create an entire community network around her prepping, self-defence classes and surprisingly delicious stashed food. Elementary weapons training, growing your own food and stashing products for barter are other clever options.

All in all, I would say that some of the episodes of this season ("I hope I am crazy", "Into the spider hole", etc) might give you a good look at the U.S. prepper subculture. The second season is more of a freak show, Jerry Springer style. But sure, if that entertains you...