How soap operas changed the world - One of the many ways to help make a difference

By Stephanie Hegarty, BBC World Service

Soap operas aren't often celebrated for contributing to the good of society. Whether it's the materialism of Dallas or the idle gossip of Neighbours, they are better known for being shallow and addictive than for bringing about social change.

But around the world the genre has succeeded in providing "educational entertainment" - a blend of public service messages and melodrama that has enraptured millions of viewers.

Here are some of the things soaps have achieved.

To read more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-17820571