By Lee Pfeiffer
There's a Golden Rule in America: you can take on virtually anyone on the political right or left and find plenty of support. However, there remains one iconic presence that who is seemingly immune from criticism: Oprah Winfrey. No one denies that the Queen of TV has used her influence and wealth to benefit needy people. However, pundit Bill Maher takes her on for her mega-rated annual "Favorite Things" show in which she lavishes incredible gifts on audience members. They range from free cruises to Australia to new cars. Maher criticizes Winfrey, who fashions herself a "spiritual" person, for perpetuating America's obsession with defining happiness by owning materialistic goods, which Maher categorizes as "crap". He uses video clips to illustrate the virtually insane reactions of the audiences members as they are awarded these prizes. He also uses clips from other TV shows in which recipients of gifts act equally crazy. What he fails to point out is that at least this year's recipients on Oprah's program were all chosen on the basis of notable charitable work they have done. Still, the almost lunatic reaction of the recipients gives credence to Maher's criticisms, especially in an era in which many American's find themselves deep in debt at least in part due to wreckless over-spending on materialistic goods. These people look like they revere Winfrey as a virtual religious leader on the basis of getting some free loot. None of this is really new. At least Winfrey's audience is demeaning themselves on the basis of receiving some pretty expensive prizes. However, back in the 60s and 70s, people would do even crazier things on Let's Make a Deal and often walk away with some boxes of Rice-a-Roni and a home edition of the game. Click here to view Maher's "Christmas message".