After viewing the video, I want to make sure we understand a few basic elements of logic concerning the matter of gun violence and the power of media.
This video was made by entertainers who believe that media depicting realistic gun violence does not influence, persuade, or otherwise provide an example for viewers to mimic [ie graphic video imagery and vile rap music lyrics] in the real world. If they are being truthful in their desire for less gun violence, then they must not believe that the media violence in which they participate has any effect on the climate of violence, level of human decency, or morality in the real world. For if they did, they would not produce this sort of violent media for widespread consumption.
Yet they desire for this anti-gun video to influence, persuade, or otherwise provide an example for viewers to follow by mimicking their [emotional] arguments in the everyday world. If we are honest, I think its safe to say that the intent was for common folk to view the video and then regurgitate the ideas presented while standing around the water cooler, sitting across the pub table, and in the family room. If they desire for this video to be consumed on widespread basis and make a difference, then they must think media can make a significant impact on the masses.
This is a rather stunning example of a game I call "one of these things is not like the other." The logic of these elites confuses me: either media influences us, or it does not. If it does, how much? Think about that the next time you stand in line to check out at the grocery store. Do consumers of this type attend annual critical thinking conventions? Non-castrated men didn't start wearing skinny jeans because it looked good.
I believe that media majorly influences people - particularly in the case of people without critical thinking skills. But am I calling for a asterisk next to the First Amendment? Absolutely not. That is a slippery slope, and so I will defend anyone's right to make the media they want and share it. If we are to survive as a free society, moral choices must be made freely. The actions of one should not lead to the rights of others being taken away.
America is in trouble if we, particularly younger generations, look to media elites for guidance. This will only worsen as lines grow increasingly blurry between political operatives and media elites. Just check the guest list to recent white house parties, and consider how similar these events appear to L.A. red carpet events. This is certainly a coalition of the willing (hint: you and I are not members).
The parody video below came out several weeks ago. It captures gun violence media hypocrisy well:
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