Darling, It's true

What is it that makes crime dramas so compelling to American audiences.  CSI is the most popular television show Nielson-ratings wise (besides the NFL of course).  Maybe its that each episode starts off incredibly unresolved.   You can't NOT KNOW who the murderer is.  I am not a fan of CSI or Law and Order but I definitely see the broad appeal. I love Monk and Psych which are basically the same thing except humorous and more light hearted.  I've recently started watching Castle which is kind of like a funny CSI.  I feel like mystery and crime must be a very common interest among media viewers no matter the characters or setting.