Award winning author Stephen King has written an insightful opinion piece on the hypocrisy of politicians trying to block the sale of violent video games to minors.

King specifically calls out HB 1423, a Massachusetts bill that would restrict the sale of violent video games to those under the age of 18. Yet ironically, as he points out, individuals under 18 would still be able to view violent movie flicks that make Grand Theft Auto and Resident Evil look tame in comparison. He labels the bill as another pathetic attempt by puritanical politicians to act as “surrogate parents.” Here’s a snip:

According to the proposed bill, violent videogames are pornographic and have no redeeming social merit. The vid-critics claim they exist for one reason and one reason only, so kids can experience the vicarious thrill of killing. Now, what does and doesn’t have social merit is always an interesting question, one I can discuss for hours. But what makes me crazy is when politicians take it upon themselves to play surrogate parents. The results of that are usually disastrous. Not to mention undemocratic.

One of HB 1423’s cosponsors is Rep. Christine E. Canavan, of Brockton. ”I think this legislation is a good idea,” she told the Boston Herald. ”I don’t want this constant barrage of violence on young minds and for them to think it is all right.” It’s a good point…except that it seems to me that the games only reflect a violence that already exists in the society.

Stephen King: Videogame Lunacy [EW]

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