These games really push our buttons

[DeanKoontz]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25835616/

[capcityfreepress]

Arrrg... where to start? I'm inclined to value sensitivity in such things, but there is merit to the argument that something like this opens the door for much-needed discussion. For example, when the shootings at Columbine happened, of course we experienced a steady stream of knee-jerk reactions calling the two kids "monsters," etc. Yet at what point did anyone really delve into the REAL problems that led to such a thing? Discussions of race tend to be driven by emotion rather than reason as well, so too often, we never get to the root of the problem because we get so wrapped up in our own biases and personal experiences rather than the big picture and the serious problems in pay.

_________________
"In 2012 when armageddon happens whata don't get no eggs." -GaryJ

[DeanKoontz]

I also think that these games tend to touch on very serious issues that are in dire need of real discussion. But, I don't see how creating a game that allows a person to "kill" his fellow classmates brings about a healthy discussion on the issue. The same applies to the game where you can "torture" someone. I just don't see how playing the role of an aggressor is going to help us work towards resolving these issues. Perhaps because I haven't actually seen the games themselves, I am judging them unfairly. But, it seems that these games could just as easily be counterproductive.

_________________
Human beings can always be relied upon to exert, with vigor, their God-given right to be stupid.

[capcityfreepress]

Which actually raises another issue entirely too, DK--people using "outlets" such as this as some type of release (whether it's healthy or not). Just look at how many people have tried to use Talk Montgomery here as outlet to take out their personal frustrations, problems or whatever on others, "cyber bullying" I believe they call it now.

And I agree with you about the excuse that providing said games actually leads to some type of discussion of problems. Yeah... technically it could, but it's not the best way to prompt such a discussion. Then again, we have to look in the mirror as well. Let's be honest--most people won't do crap in this society unless we somehow entice them, give them an incentive of some sort, etc.--in other words, some unrelated way to bring them in to do something good and/or productive. I don't buy any of it as excuse, but it seems that's the current trend. No one will lift a finger unless they can satisy some selfish, self-serving need or want. Just look at how much money is spent by governments and political parties each election cycle just to encourage people to vote. Why in the bloody hell should you have to coddle people like children just to get them involved in the democratic process? But sadly, that's becoming the norm....

_________________
"In 2012 when armageddon happens whata don't get no eggs." -GaryJ

[DeanKoontz]

Very good points, Cap. And, you're right, it's sad that people have to be enticed to act. As a society, we should *want* to discuss these issues and work through them. We shouldn't have to have violent video games (or anything else for that matter) to bring these matters to the forefront.

_________________
Human beings can always be relied upon to exert, with vigor, their God-given right to be stupid.