Who’s Blaming Video Games?

Abstract

Abstract Video games have become widely popular in today’s society. As the development of video games increases, the public becomes concerned about the effect of video games. This research paper will discuss and pinpoint the various groups in America that are using video games as a scapegoat for being the cause of violent behavior in the national discourse. With the evidence of past events and lawsuits, the nation’s opinion on who or what is the cause of violent behavior is evolving. Various groups such as parents, politicians, the National Rifle Association, and activist Jack Thompson blame video games for the violence and shootings that has occurred over the years in America. Groups such as the Democratic political party, have softened their views on who’s to blame for violence. While some of these groups have pursued legal action against the video game industry, the justice system has ruled against them citing in two cases that it would be too far a jump for the companies to predict violent actions. In future cases video games have been protected under the 1st amendment law as other mediums. Ultimately the debate surrounding video games has evolved as they are now used as a tool to combat gun control.

Keywords: Video games, violence, mass shootings, scapegoat