One American state lawmaker proposed a tax on violent computer games. Well, not games portraying violence, necessarily. It
would add a one percent excise tax on the sale of games rated T or above by the ESRB. That wide umbrella would include violence-free games like Guitar Hero and Ultimate Card Games that received a T rating for "suggestive lyrics" and "simulated gambling," respectively. But hey, at least Call of Duty would set someone back an additional 60ยข under the plan.
Revenues raised by this Missouri law (should it become so) would help pay for mental health treatment for those harmed by violent video games. A complete loop.
Which will then encourage more diagnosis of video game related mental illness, as providers will want a piece of that pie. Truly a 'virtuous circle.'
Posted by: Clyde Lee Graham | January 16, 2013 at 15:09
Sorry, not sure if my cynicism and sarcasm are obvious in that previous post.
Posted by: Clyde Lee Graham | January 16, 2013 at 15:10
No, they were pretty clear. And accurate - these things do feed themselves.
Posted by: Bryan Alexander | January 16, 2013 at 18:42