This graph of The Simpsons illustrates (for me at least) that IMDB is more reflective of the viewing community's weird quirks and biases. Honestly: is "Homer the Smithers" the best episode of The Simpsons? I doubt anyone would truly put it on their "best ever" list. It's really more "solid" than great. Most importantly: it doesn't rub anyone the wrong way. Is "Saddlesore Galactica" one of the worst episodes ever? No.…
> The episode's score reflects a community desire rather than an objective opinion. I don't really understand your point. You think it's biased for audience members to rate an episode poorly because they didn't enjoy it and didn't think it was funny?
For example if the episode makes fun of christians you may have a heavy amount of christians vote the episode down even though it was a good episode. The people that thought it was good aren't as motivated to vote as the people offended.
This is also common with service providers and internet reviews. If the service is good there is no need to go online and post a review. If it's bad you are much more likely to take the time.