Media Censorship

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The argument against media censorship has been going on for years, even decades. It is still a hotbed issue for some. Should something that offends some be banned for everyone? Should forms of media be censored, and if so, how is it done fairly and equally? Arguments will be presented as well as some as some deeper issues as well.

The biggest issue in censorship currently is video games. Violence and content is the major issue and dispute about video games. Games are currently rated EC (Early Childhood) to AO (Adults Only). (ESRB) The basic argument was that the ratings system should enable parents to make good rental and purchasing decisions. With this system, parents can check the front and back of the game box and see the rating and what content makes this game get the rating it has. However, parents are just too busy to check into what their kids are watching or playing, most simply don’t have the time or resources to keep up with what their kids could be viewing on the television, or to monitor what video games they may be playing at home. Most parents, grandparents, family, etc., have no idea what to look for a box and just end up getting any title their child asks for. Moreover video games present a large problem with the potential for violence or sexual references contained within them which makes the need for censorship even more of a necessity. This argument is especially directed to single parents who have work and may not have a lot of time to spend monitoring what their children are playing. However, single parents may not do not have the time or resources to know what exactly their children are playing or what type of content is in the games.

It seems somewhat easier to monitor television viewing...

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...mply because not all religions celebrate Christmas.

Another major form of censorship is book censorship. There have been several notable

The main argument against censorship is to keep children from watching or playing something that may be inappropriate for their age. That is understandable, but where would this lead be if censorship was allowed, if no violence or offensive material was allowed in the media. Television shows such as Nip/Tuck, Saturday Night Live, Desperate Housewives and many more would have to be removed from television all together. There would be no more video games other than types such as Dora the Explorer, Barbie, and Mickey Mouse. Totally censoring major forms of media is ridiculous, since strides have been made to control access and viewing of these same forms of media.

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