The following appeared in the editorial section of a national news magazine:

"The rating system for electronic games is similar to the movie rating system in that it provides consumers with a quick reference so that they can determine if the subject matter and contents are appropriate. This electronic game rating system is not working because it is self regulated and the fines for violating the rating system are nominal. As a result an independent body should oversee the game industry and companies that knowingly violate the rating system should be prohibited from releasing a game for two years."

Discuss how well reasoned you find this argument. Point out flaws in the argument's logic and analyze the argument's underlying assumptions. In addition, evaluate how supporting evidence is used and what evidence might counter the argument's conclusion. You may also discuss what additional evidence could be used to strengthen the argument or what changes would make the argument more logically sound.

My response
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Appropriate ratings for the electronic games and movies are mandatory because consumers use it as a reference to decide the age group of the person who should be using it. To a certain extent the wrong ratings of the movies may not impact as much as the wrong ratings of the electronic games may do.

The games if they are meant to be used by a particular age group under guidance may cause harm if they are used by such age group without any guidance. For example if an electronic car meant to be driven only under guidance if used without guidance may result in a fatal accident.

In today's competitive market the main aim of most of the companies is to generate maximum possible revenue and if the authority to rate the product lies in the hands of those companies then it is very likely that to achieve higher revenues and compete in the market many companies may do manipulations in those ratings.

The reason for these biased ratings is correctly stated by the author ; not only these companies have authority to rate their products but also they do not have any fear of losing any market or revenue as the fines for violating the rules are very minimal.

Keeping in mind the harm, which can be a result of the wrong such wrong ratings I fully agree with the author that there is a need to get a fair rating. It can be achieved by appointing an independent body, which will regulate such ratings also to discourage the violation of the ratings heavy fines should be imposed for the violations of the ratings.