In recent years, the prevalence of violence in media has been on the rise. While some argue that this trend will undoubtedly lead to a dangerous future for humanity, others believe it has no harmful effects on society. In my opinion, media violence does not significantly impact people’s behavior in most cases.
First and foremost, I believe that individuals act based on their own motives, regardless of what they see on television. In other words, if someone intends to harm another person, it is not due to watching TV or playing video games, but rather a reflection of that individual’s character and upbringing. Although it is commonly believed that exposure to violent media desensitizes viewers to cruelty, I question this perspective. I maintain that reasonable and intelligent people treat others with respect, regardless of the fictional content they consume.
Furthermore, video games and television may actually reduce social violence by providing a safe outlet for aggression. In this sense, individuals with aggressive tendencies may choose to engage in virtual battles instead of acting out their combative instincts in the real world. This not only benefits those individuals but could also lower the overall level of social violence in the long run.
Finally, despite numerous claims and assumptions regarding the negative effects of television and video games, I have yet to see a proven link between violent media and illegal activities in society.
In conclusion, I assert that violence in contemporary media does not have a substantial effect on people’s behavior. Television and computers are not the primary influences that shape personal character, and in fact, they can be beneficial in reducing violence.