The Activist

Issue date: 3/8/10 Section: Arts and Entertainment

Here we go again; video games seem to be causing problems when it comes to psychologists, religious organizations, and politicians. The high level of violence appears to be the biggest dilemma with games such as, but not limited to, Mortal Kombat, which rewards players for fighting and killing an opponent, and the Grand Theft Auto games, where players are encouraged to steal cars, hit pedestrians, and pick up prostitutes.

Video games are beginning to be compared to violent television shows and movies. However, it is becoming evident that video games are potentially worse, because they require the player's involvement and allow the player to make the moves. Violent video games are starting to be related to crimes and shootings, such as the Columbine shooting back in 1999.

These video games are teaching children how to use weapons, how to identify weapons, and different ways to kill people. These skills are hardly positive, especially when it comes to young children that play.

There are many who are against this argument, protesting that video games are just another source of entertainment; but it's hard to believe that spending hours upon hours playing these games that practice killing and stealing are having a positive influence.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools