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Variety reports that MTV will launch 16 new reality TV shows -- this time a little more cuddly than what we might be used to.

"Our new shows will feature themes of affirmation and accomplishment," says Brian Graden, prez of entertainment at MTV Networks music channels and president of Logo. "Our shows are going to focus less on loud and silly hooks and more on young people proving themselves. These are themes that are consistent with the Obama generation."

I'll be interested to see what comes of this new direction. MTV pioneered reality television with The Real World a generation ago. But the earnest exploration of people trying to understand each other's world view has mostly been replaced by binge-drinking, boob-flashing partiers. I can only watch so many fist fights and fake interventions. That's so 1999, Real World: Hawaii-style.

Graden may be on to something with this new affirmation approach. I prefer shows like MADE, which helps a teenager transform into whatever they want to be. They've turned sissies into BMXers, geeks into beauty queens, fatties into models. It's a nice and seemingly -- for reality TV anyway -- genuine take on the makeover show.

Now let's see if shows like that can really draw an audience.