iParticipate 13

1. Do you think the government should have more or less power to exercise prior restraint (censorship)?

I don’t think the government needs any more power than it already does to exercise prior restraint upon its citizens. Freedom of speech is a pivotal aspect of our democracy and one that I value very highly. I should be able to look up a variety of opinions from around the United States without having to worry about being withheld from certain points of view. Thankfully, this does not seem too much of an issue today and I certainly hope it doesn’t become one in the future.

2.  How would your decision in question one affect national security interests?

Freedom of Speech is in the very first amendment of our country’s constitution. I hold onto my beliefs and morals very strongly and I don’t think a cease of increased power on prior restraint would affect national security in a serious manner. It may affect the interests of homeland security or any politicians who seek to influence national security but that does not mean the United States government needs to place bars on one of our most sacred freedoms.

3.  What type of restrictions should be placed on the advertising of alcohol?

No more than there already are. I’ve seen plenty of alcohol ads that end with the narrator/spokesperson telling the audience to drink responsibly. Alcohol commercials don’t feature high schoolers partying with bud lights their hands but usually show a group of friends in their twenties hanging out a bar or a ball game and having an enjoyable time which is an adequate way of advertising alcohol.

4.  If you were in charge, would you place restrictions on social media posts?

Yes, I would. Hate speech isn’t illegal in our country and nor would I make it so; I’m a very strong supporter of freedom of speech even if I don’t agree with it.  However, I would place harsher restrictions on the spreading of speech that is enticing violent or unlawful acts such as hate crimes or vandalizing in the name of a protest. Anytime a post or tweet that incites violence is caught then severe consequences will be enforced with the help of proper authorities.

5. What is your opinion of the television and movie rating systems in terms of effectiveness and protecting children?  How would you improve the system?

I think anyone under the age of seventeen should not be allowed to see a rated R film in movie theatres even if they are accompanied by a parent. Too many parents allow their children to see movies with them that are inappropriate. I remember attending a screening of the rated R film, “Deadpool”, and seeing a Mother and her two children who had to be no older than twelve sitting in the row in front of me. I find it utterly ridiculous that a parent could think it’s okay for their child to see a film like “Deadpool” or any rated R film. They’re rated R for a reason and having kids see these movies in theatres is not a part of the plan.