Censorship: Helpful or Hindering?
Uploaded by cassatnu1 on Feb 03, 2001
What exactly is censorship? Some feel censorship is a violation of their rights. Others say censorship is a must in the violent, abusive world we call “society.” Who has the right to censor? Who doesn’t? What needs to be censored, and what doesn’t? The fact of the matter is that there are many pros and cons in the music and entertainment industry about censorship. Personally, I believe that the consumers and viewers should be charged with the ultimate responsibility of censorship.
One major area in which there is much argument on censorship is that of television. Since its invention earlier this century, television has become the most popular format for entertainment. We can be entertained, informed, and inspired by programs on television. But nowadays, television stations are becoming less restrictive about the content in their programs. More violence, profanity, and nudity than ever before now graces our television screens every night. Clearly, there are things that children should not be seeing on television. Therefor, the new v-chip legislation in process requires all television manufacturers to install an electronic device that allows parents to set the tolerance levels for violence, profanity and nudity. However, are children’s viewing habits the responsibility of the government or the parents?
A good point can be made that there is far too much violence on television today, and that an invention such as a v-chip would help immensely. But what about such violent dramas such as “Schindler’s List,” and “Saving Private Ryan” which will be shown to future generations as a means of educating? Will the v-chip automatic censor block out programs such as these out? Some say that another good reason to censor certain television shows is the theme of the show or movie, such as those which teach bad morals and principles. But for families that watch television together and discuss the good, the bad and the ugly, there is no need for anything like a v-chip. The lines of communication are open, and the children are taught what is acceptable and what is not. By relying on a transistor to do their parenting for them, many parents will fall even more out of touch with their children, who will spend more time trying to get around technology to watch shows they are not supposed to watch. Those are just a few minor points about censorship on television, but many of the same points can...