Videos, Permissiveness, and the Law

by Francis Bridger

Paperback

Published January 1, 1984

Reviews

[C. John Kerry]

Mr. Bridger is attempting in this item to develop an ethical response to the matter of what he refers to as video nasties. This term, which I suspect is British in origin, I am given to understand refers to the type of video that features violence of a particularly sadistic nature. The problem is that the content is one that almost compels the religiously minded to condemn this material and to try to prohibit it. At the same time the concept of freedom of choice enters the picture. If the material is of a disturbing nature but is doing no harm, than we shouldn't be prohibiting it. Part of the problem with this material is that although it is meant for adult eyes, youthful eyes for whom it is not intended are able to see it. Mr. Bridger is not able to come up with a solution, however he has presented the problem in its essence, thus allowing for a possible fuller discussion. For the person looking for a conclusive answer you won't find it here, nor was it the intention of Mr. Bridger to provide one. What he has done is set out the various points of discussion, and provided some ideas that might be applicable to the discussion. The table has been set, so to speak. Now it is up to the rest of us to come to grips with the matter. Happy reading.
Warning: Mr. Bridger has described some examples of this type of video at the beginning of the book. The scenes he describes are pretty strong. Those who do not wish to encounter them might wish to start with the second part of the book.