V Chip Technology

Paper Summary:

This paper examines one of the most controversial steps in curtailing violence on television, the V chip. It discusses whether or not V chip technology provides a good way of reducing the exposure of children and teens to violence on television. The first part of the paper describes how V chip technology works, which is by blocking out graphic violence and language on television. The paper then explores the opposition to V Chip legislation and technology, both from a liberal and a conservative standpoint. In the conclusion, the paper addresses the various concerns that opponents have raised against V chip legislation. It states that, although the V chip is not a cure-all, it provides an effective step in reducing the exposure of children and minors to violence on television.

From the Paper:

"In 1996, then President Bill Clinton signed into law a requirement that all new television sets should be equipped with the V chip. This silicone wafer would allow viewers to block programs deemed explicit or offensive simply by punching a key into their remote control pads (Rolfe). This would allow parents to regulate programs based on content, particularly violence, sex and profanity. In its evaluation of almost 10,000 hours of broadcast programming from 1995 to 1997, the National Television Violence Study found that 61 percent of television programs portrayed acts of violence. Most of this violence was glamorized, committed by characters that are otherwise presented as positive role models. While many of the violent acts that would cause serious harm or death in real life, the programs neutralize these lethal effects through the lack of painful effects or through humor (Center for Communication and Social Policy 8)."

More papers on V Chip Technology:

• Essay # 32989 : "The V-Chip, Public Policy, and Juvenile Crime"
• Persuasive Essay # 108544 : "Television Censorship"
• Essay # 67310 : "Changes in Television Censorship"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: