American Censorship of Japanese Animation
Abrstract: This essay will explore why Americans feel the need to censor Japanese Animation, how the Japanese culture differs from American culture, and how to solve the growing debate of the censorship of Japanese media.
Japan, that strange and exotic land in the east, has a complex and interesting history that has shaped and molded its culture into a very unique society today. Of course their customs have influenced their entertainment, especially television and movies. In a day and age where information is free to all through the internet and reliable postal systems these television shows, movies, toys, and comics have made their way all over the world. The reception of Japanese media has had mixed reactions, both good and bad.
America, being an amalgamation of societies and cultures, has naturally had a mixed reaction to Japanese media. The younger generation, namely those in their twenties or younger, have embraced the bright and flashy style of Japanese animation. The most popular shows are the ones with the most action, but shows that concentrate on character development and storyline are also popular, especially among the female population. The older generation does not have such open minds unfortunately. They do not seem to understand the appeal of the big eyed characters yelling nonsense at each other or the fact that all animation is not just silly kid’s stuff. Not only that, but Japanese animation has been tagged as overly violent and obscene. It has been accused of causing violence and disturbing young children by fundamentalist organizations.
American television networks and video distributors also feel the need to c...
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...they were truly meant to be, and parents do not have to worry about inappropriate content for their children. With a little bit of effort the rising sun can be purified and enjoyed by all.
Works Cited
Barker, Olivia. “The Asianization of America.” USA Today. March 2001: 1A-2A. Infotrac.
Bryant, Anthony J. and Arsenault, Mark. Sengoku. Gold Rush Games 1997-1999.
Clements, Jonathon and McCarthy, Helen. The Anime Encyclopedia. Stone Bridge Press 2001.
Lazar, Jim. “Anime Expo Report 2000.” www.animeprime.com Retrieved December 13, 2004.
Lazar, Jim. “Sailor Moon Editing Report.” www.animeprime.com Retrieved December 18, 2004.
MacKinnon, Mark C. The Sailor Moon Role-Playing Game and Resource Book. Guardians of Order 1998.
Mallory, Michael. “Kid’s Anime Hits Critical Mass.” Los Angeles Times. Oct. 2004: 18. Infotrac.
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