Or so the theory goes, if adhered to the current hypothetical parameters which seem to be making the media industries perform very slow seppuku. If people were happier with what they watched, wouldn't it stand to reason they'd watch more? Doesn't Econ 101 also cover why demand is good for your income?

Not that I think you're wrong :) I'm definitely in the minority in this. But I do doubt these sentiments / desires / tendencies are in the minority.