Graphic violence
From The Art and Popular Culture Encyclopedia
|
Related e |
|
Featured: |
- carnography, aestheticization of violence, Pyramus and Thisbe, art as an excuse for depicting prurient interests, death in art
Graphic violence is the depiction of violence in media such as film, television, and video games. It may be real or simulated live action, or animated.
It is a highly controversial topic. Many believe that exposure to graphic violence leads to desensitization to violence, others believe that it has a cathartic effect. It has led to censorship in extreme cases, and regulation in others, one case being the creation of the Entertainment Software Rating Board in 1994. and television and film rating boards in many nations.
Contents |
Film
In theatrical performances, films are rated using a motion picture rating system, in part based on the level of graphic violence. Television broadcasts are similarly rated using a television rating system.
News media
News media on television and online video often cover violent or deadly incidents, such as accidents, wars , terrorist attacks, crime, natural disasters and other events. The coverage may preceded with a warning, stating that the footage may be disturbing to some viewers.
Sometimes graphic images are censored, by blurring or blocking a portion of the image, cutting the violent portions out of an image sequence or by removing certain portions of film footage from viewing.
Video games
Violent content has been a central part of video game controversy. Critics such as Dave Grossman argue that violence in games hardens children to unethical acts, calling first-person shooter games "murder simulators", although no conclusive evidence has supported this belief.
See also
- Television rating system
- Motion picture rating system
- Aestheticization of violence
- Media influence
- Splatter film
