Conflicts with the V-Chip, and how it effects Parents, children, and the Government.

Conflicts with the V-Chip

In my opinion, the government mandated television rating system does not violate the free speech clause of the First Amendment. I think this is because even though the TV shows do have some restrictions, they are still allowed to show and say many things that show violence or sex. Just like U.S citizens are entitled to free speech and say what's on their mind as long as they don't offend others, the mandated television rating system simply provides boundaries for television broadcasts so that the viewer's rights are not violated.

I believe the V-Chip is good public policy because I feel that there is a need for a certain amount of restriction on the content of television broadcast. It seams that as time goes on; television has been using violence, and sexual content, to attract viewers' attention. They do this because it allows them to attract more advertisers so they make money but are not concerned for the impact the content of their shows has on monitors like me. The V-Chip, allows parents like mine to determine what minors should or shouldn't see and I think this is a good thing.

Three other government laws or regulations that I know about that are specifically targeted at me as a minor are based on being a certain age. The law says I must be a certain age to be able to vote, get married, and drink alcohol. Until I become that age, which I believe is 18 or 21 in my state, I am considered a minor, and by law, not allowed to do those three things.