WHAT do reality TV shows like “Survivor” and “America’s Next Top Model” have in common with an insurgent method of stimulating useful innovations around the world?

It may be hard to believe that watching Tyra Banks drive aspiring models to the breaking point can provide insight into how to accelerate technological change.

Well, pinch yourself.

Popular reality shows indeed provide a way to understand the logic behind a new wave of contests in technological innovation. Both types are driven by head-to-head competition among unknowns. And the winner takes all — and is celebrated in the process.

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