[Apocryphon]

I was once told soap opera is literally named for disposable shows that people at the laundromat would have on while waiting for their clothes to finish drying. That turns out to be a folk etymology, but it's believable.

As for original programming seemed dumbed down, I'd argue that for whatever reason (general technical advancements, maybe), it's far easier to make dumb shows, with higher production values. That's how you get wannabe prestige dramas that ape the style of The Sopranos, Mad Men, even costume epics like Game of Shows, but end up being far more vapid and worse in writing or plot. It's sort of how even box office stinkers these days look much better than bad movies used to do.

[chaoticmass]

I don't mind over-the-top drama. Drama does not need to be dumb. One of my favorite series is Downton Abbey. The rule of that show seems to be that given a situation, always take the most dramatic route. This isn't bad though, the characters react realistically, they have depth, the show is wonderfully well acted. If you're not actively paying attention you will miss subtle facial expressions and looks that the characters show, giving more insight into what they are really thinking.

[bshimmin]

For anyone wondering, the term originated from radio dramas being sponsored by soap manufacturers (according to Wikipedia).