Rating Systems: What was the social impact of TV?

Television has become one of the most important inventions of the last century. It has the ability to connect and inform millions of people. With such a large audience, television programmers have the responsibility to present content that is acceptable to both viewers and sponsors. From the beginning of television's history, networks have attempted to find the delicate balancing act of finding programs that get the audiences attention, but do not cause the sponsors to pull their financial backing. However, television programmers are in the entertainment business to ultimately make money. To help minimize

complaints, networks began to comply with sets of rules and standards. For example, according to Communication in History, after pressure from such organizations as the FCC, Catholic Church, and even congress, networks began to follow the Television Code in 1951 (228).

While both society, standards, and rating criteria have changed significantly on what is acceptable, television still attempts to appease the masses. In my opinion, censorship is not acceptable in any mass communication medium. Everyone has their own opinion of they find offensive. However, if the gatekeepers, such as the television programmers, alert parents and concerned citizens about any material that may be questionable it can prevent any issues. Now with the new television ratings system and new technology, like the V-chip, it allows for parents to make decisions for their own children.

Crowley, David, and Paul Heyer. Communication in History: Technology, Culture, Society. Boston: Ally & Bacon, 2011. Print.