Actually, if you think about it, breaking into that industry is really hard. This gives people a chance to be heard. You can make it to the top... what, 24 or something? based off of skill instead of looks and such, and if you're good enough, even if you don't get the votes to stay in, you're heard by talent scouts and can get picked up. I think it's a good opportuinty for some people. Obviously a few always get by on looks *cough*like most of the people this season *cough* but there are always a few good ones, like Adam Lambert (who for me ruined American Idol, since no one will ever be as good as him on that show) or this seasons Siobhan, she's really pretty amazing.
I disagree with you completely, though I respect where you're coming from. smile