Sunday 27 July 2014

The Common Sense Alternative Media And Censorship

By Miranda Sweeney


When it comes to censorship, it can often be difficult to determine whether or not some programming is okay for children of a specific age. While there are often ratings on different games and movies, television shows have no such ratings. One reason groups like the Common Sense Alternative Media exist is to assure children are watching age appropriate television, playing and using age appropriate apps and games and watching age appropriate movies.

Acting as an advocate to children, teens, young adults and families, the organization works to educate parents and rate programming. Education consist of rating and reviewing a number of different apps, books, games, movies, periodicals, television shows and websites. Once titles are reviewed, a rating is given and if necessary, a parental warning label applied to the product.

An "Editor's Pick, " section of the website provides what the editor of the website considers the best of everything from apps and movies to television shows and websites. In the News and Topics with discussions on issues like "bullying, " and other topics based on current events round out the section.

The Video section provides a number of reviews of movies coming soon to theaters and those which have already aired. In addition, individuals can watch a number of educational and advice driven videos upon request. These along with the parental blog make for a very active parental community on the website.

Providing information and insight on the intention of Congress to take over the Internet landed the organization in the news. In one document, it specifies a mission of the organization is to wake up the American people as to just how many freedoms are being taken away on a daily basis. This leak about Congress and the internet, whether true or otherwise, almost meant the end for the organization while somewhat proving the theory true.

Censorship whether personal or provided by an organization is, has and always will be controversial. Parental control over children has always been the way of life when it comes to television. At least, up until the introduction of cable and satellite programming. At which time, the programming reached levels of maturity with images of sex and violence that could land a parent in jail by sheer accident.

When it comes to children, the overall health and well being of the children is what matters most. Parents are responsible for seeing to it that children when in mixed company are well behaved. After the age of twelve, it is often necessary to determine fault based on a review of the actions and people present at the time.

When children are not exposed to drugs, sex and violence on television, focus often stays on fun. Children are known for acting out and repeating everything seen and heard at an early age. Unfortunately, when exposed to drugs, sex and violence on screen, these too are part of the act. It is up to parents to raise children in a way that is acceptable based on the environment and surroundings rather than society's expectations.




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