As an avid videogamer, essential viewing for me is Gameface and Ginx Files on Bravo on Saturday mornings. On this morning's show, presenter Julia Hardy responded to the latest round of do-gooders jumping on the "video games are evil and corruptive" bandwagon. The latest round is basically a re-hash of everything that has been said before, criticising the content of video games as being inappropriate for younger players. I think Julia responded admirably to this, pointing out that movies and other mainstream media also contain material inappropriate for younger people, and it's their parents' responsibility to monitor them and ensure that age classifications are adhered to.
The criticism of video games is simply scapegoating, using this medium as something to blame for society's ills. It's an easy target, and in an era of passing the buck it's an ideal way to shift attention from the real problems in society - irresponsible parenting, social deprivation, political indifference - the list goes on.
Perhaps these critics should take a look at the positive aspects of videogaming. These kids who are sitting there, playing those games, are not on the streets being exposed to the growing cultures of drugs, gangs and knife crime.
What would they be doing if they weren't playing these games? There are very few youth clubs or social clubs these days, more and more playing fields are having houses built on them, so what are they going to do in their spare time? Just wander the streets, getting bored and ending up getting into trouble? Display themselves as easy targets to get sucked into the world of gangs and drugs?
The do-gooders may suggest they read a book, which is a good idea. I read a lot of books myself, and it's a great pursuit. However, they can't just sit there reading books all the time. If they did, these same do-gooders would be saying that kids are not socialising with each other and losing social skills - another criticism they are aiming at the computer generation. They don't realise that the growing world of online multiplayer gaming is actually offering them a new platform for interacting with each other.
It's time these mis-informed grannies stopped blaming everything on the content of video games. Life itself is full of content inappropriate for younger people. Every time you turn on the television or pick up a newspaper there are stories about rape and murder and other horrific crimes. Note - hardly any of the people committing these crimes are videogamers. Were video games responsible for Baby P's death? Did video games turn Gary Glitter into a paedophile? How many video games did the Yorkshire Ripper play?
Video games are an important entertainment medium with a valid and positive contribution to make to society. So, on behalf of gamers, I say to these critics, please leave them alone and start trying to tackle the real causes of society's problems.
Saturday, 27 February 2010
Chilean Earthquake
A major earthquake in Chile, this one not long after the one in Haiti. Is it just me, or do there seem to be more earthquakes lately? It's like the world is getting sick of us abusing it and is just showing us who is the real boss in this relationship.
I wonder who will arrange the charity song this time and which one they will choose?
Call me cynical, but I get a bit fed up of seeing these mega-rich superstars "giving their time free of charge" to make these cheesy, basically crap songs. If they just had a whip-round they could raise a lot more than their charity single ever could, especially in these days of illegal downloads.
I remember the late eighties, there was a real fashion for charity singles for any old reason. It was like - there's been a car crash, let's make a charity single; some old woman lost her purse - charity single; the last charity single didn't do very well so let's make another charity single to help the last one.
I think Bob Geldof has a lot to answer for.
Still, I guess it wasn't as bad as it is now, in this era of egos, where everyone on the single is trying to outperform all the others - kind of missing the point of it, really.
Anyway, my thoughts and prayers are with the people of Chile today, and I promise I won't illegally download their charity song.
I wonder who will arrange the charity song this time and which one they will choose?
Call me cynical, but I get a bit fed up of seeing these mega-rich superstars "giving their time free of charge" to make these cheesy, basically crap songs. If they just had a whip-round they could raise a lot more than their charity single ever could, especially in these days of illegal downloads.
I remember the late eighties, there was a real fashion for charity singles for any old reason. It was like - there's been a car crash, let's make a charity single; some old woman lost her purse - charity single; the last charity single didn't do very well so let's make another charity single to help the last one.
I think Bob Geldof has a lot to answer for.
Still, I guess it wasn't as bad as it is now, in this era of egos, where everyone on the single is trying to outperform all the others - kind of missing the point of it, really.
Anyway, my thoughts and prayers are with the people of Chile today, and I promise I won't illegally download their charity song.
Friday, 26 February 2010
Terrorism - Is It Worth It?
I really don't understand terrorism. I don't see the point of it. I don't recall any case in history where terrorists have got what they want with their bombing campaigns.
After 9/11, did the US say, "Right, okay, you win. We'll adopt Sharia Law and all worship Islam?"
After 7/7, did the UK say, "Oh dear, you've beaten us - we'll do what you say from now on."
So, what's the point of terrorism? It's just men blowing themselves up, leaving behind wives and children, and really achieving nothing. Also, I don't know about anyone else, but I can't imagine their wives being too happy about why they're doing it. These men are promised 50 virgins in heaven for their sacrifice. Surely their wives must be thinking, "So, am I not woman enough for him? Maybe I should spit in his dinner."
There have been some more suicide bombings in Afghanistan this morning. The Taliban have claimed responsibility. But why do it? It's their own country, their own people and property. It's like keying your own car, or driving a truck into your own front door. I really don't understand it.
It doesn't even work anyway. The UK populace were certainly not terrorised by the 7/7 bombings. The next day, they were all out there again, waiting for buses and the tube, and still complaining that they were late.
As for what they did in Scotland, they obviously didn't do their homework first. The Scottish are much too hard to succumb to terrorist attacks. To illustrate this point, just look at what happened when they tried to bomb Glasgow airport: The terrorist was on fire, and one of the Glasgow men beat him up. Talk about adding insult to injury! The bloke's in flames and there's some big Scottish guy punching him in the face.
You could set a bomb off right next to a Scotsman and he would just look at you and say, "Is that the best you can do?" Then he'll beat the crap out of you.
So, terrorists, please give it up. It's not working.
After 9/11, did the US say, "Right, okay, you win. We'll adopt Sharia Law and all worship Islam?"
After 7/7, did the UK say, "Oh dear, you've beaten us - we'll do what you say from now on."
So, what's the point of terrorism? It's just men blowing themselves up, leaving behind wives and children, and really achieving nothing. Also, I don't know about anyone else, but I can't imagine their wives being too happy about why they're doing it. These men are promised 50 virgins in heaven for their sacrifice. Surely their wives must be thinking, "So, am I not woman enough for him? Maybe I should spit in his dinner."
There have been some more suicide bombings in Afghanistan this morning. The Taliban have claimed responsibility. But why do it? It's their own country, their own people and property. It's like keying your own car, or driving a truck into your own front door. I really don't understand it.
It doesn't even work anyway. The UK populace were certainly not terrorised by the 7/7 bombings. The next day, they were all out there again, waiting for buses and the tube, and still complaining that they were late.
As for what they did in Scotland, they obviously didn't do their homework first. The Scottish are much too hard to succumb to terrorist attacks. To illustrate this point, just look at what happened when they tried to bomb Glasgow airport: The terrorist was on fire, and one of the Glasgow men beat him up. Talk about adding insult to injury! The bloke's in flames and there's some big Scottish guy punching him in the face.
You could set a bomb off right next to a Scotsman and he would just look at you and say, "Is that the best you can do?" Then he'll beat the crap out of you.
So, terrorists, please give it up. It's not working.
Wednesday, 24 February 2010
Falklands Reprise
The Falkland Islands has long been a bone of contention between Britain and Argentina, who claim sovereignty over the islands that they call "Islas Malvinas".
In the early eighties, our two countries even went to war over them. Argentina decided to occupy the islands and establish their sovereignty over them. Britain sent our forces in, and in a short, exceptionally bloody war for its length, drove the Argentinians out.
This particular powder keg is primed to blow up again. The touch paper has been lit, and now it just remains to see if it will be doused, or if it will explode again.
At the moment, it's just handbags at ten paces, with posturing and a few lightly veiled threats. Argentina has imposed conditions on passing through its waters.
However, what makes this situation so dangerous is that geogolists say there is a bonanza of oil in the area. Suddenly, the Falkland Islands have become extremely valuable as whoever controls that oil will make billions from it.
Drilling has started, which Argentina is already unhappy about.
So, what happens if and when oil is found?
Well, consider this:
Britain's armed forces are terribly stretched with the situation in the Middle East.
Argentina has the support of its neighbours, who are even talking about setting up a coalition of South American countries which will exclude the US.
When oil is found, a foreign nation will be making billions of pounds from a reserve located within a couple of hundred miles of the coast of Argentina, a location they already argue belongs to them.
Imagine this; it's like some foreigner coming over and taking all the vegetables you'd been growing in your garden to sell at the local food fair. Needless to say, you would be furious.
I think that once oil is found in that area, we are going to see a new war break out. And this could escalate into the third world war that people are predicting.
These tiny islands, inhabited by a small population, could trigger events that could suck the world into armageddon.
Think about it: Argentina already has the support of its neighbours. How much support will it get if it offers them a share of the oil wealth?
If Britain goes to war with these nations, then the US will be obliged to help. This may suck Russia in on the opposing side. A European coalition could be formed, drawing more nations into the conflict, and bringing part of the theatre of war to Europe. With Britain and US distracted, the Taliban will grow stronger and reestablish itself. Iran will continue its nuclear development, as will North Korea. The war in the middle east will probably start with Israel and then spread across the area. The two Koreas will clash, bringing China into the conflict, and this will eventually draw Japan in.
It might all sound a bit dramatic when you consider the Falklands is just a tiny group of islands. But, don't forget, the First World War was started with a single gunshot.
In the early eighties, our two countries even went to war over them. Argentina decided to occupy the islands and establish their sovereignty over them. Britain sent our forces in, and in a short, exceptionally bloody war for its length, drove the Argentinians out.
This particular powder keg is primed to blow up again. The touch paper has been lit, and now it just remains to see if it will be doused, or if it will explode again.
At the moment, it's just handbags at ten paces, with posturing and a few lightly veiled threats. Argentina has imposed conditions on passing through its waters.
However, what makes this situation so dangerous is that geogolists say there is a bonanza of oil in the area. Suddenly, the Falkland Islands have become extremely valuable as whoever controls that oil will make billions from it.
Drilling has started, which Argentina is already unhappy about.
So, what happens if and when oil is found?
Well, consider this:
Britain's armed forces are terribly stretched with the situation in the Middle East.
Argentina has the support of its neighbours, who are even talking about setting up a coalition of South American countries which will exclude the US.
When oil is found, a foreign nation will be making billions of pounds from a reserve located within a couple of hundred miles of the coast of Argentina, a location they already argue belongs to them.
Imagine this; it's like some foreigner coming over and taking all the vegetables you'd been growing in your garden to sell at the local food fair. Needless to say, you would be furious.
I think that once oil is found in that area, we are going to see a new war break out. And this could escalate into the third world war that people are predicting.
These tiny islands, inhabited by a small population, could trigger events that could suck the world into armageddon.
Think about it: Argentina already has the support of its neighbours. How much support will it get if it offers them a share of the oil wealth?
If Britain goes to war with these nations, then the US will be obliged to help. This may suck Russia in on the opposing side. A European coalition could be formed, drawing more nations into the conflict, and bringing part of the theatre of war to Europe. With Britain and US distracted, the Taliban will grow stronger and reestablish itself. Iran will continue its nuclear development, as will North Korea. The war in the middle east will probably start with Israel and then spread across the area. The two Koreas will clash, bringing China into the conflict, and this will eventually draw Japan in.
It might all sound a bit dramatic when you consider the Falklands is just a tiny group of islands. But, don't forget, the First World War was started with a single gunshot.
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
9/11 - Conspiracy or Tragedy?
I just watched a movie called "Loose Change". This movie argues that the attacks on 9/11 were an inside job, that the Bush Administration planned and executed this atrocity.
Now, I find conspiracy theories fascinating. I think they are enthralling stories about various incidents in history. However, to be honest, I don't think I really believe them. If these theories were true, then every tragic accident or incident in history has been orchestrated by someone or other with a hidden agenda.
9/11 I find exceptionally hard to accept as a conspiracy. The simple reason for this is that I can't believe anyone could be so evil as to plan the murders of so many people. Perhaps I'm being like people during the war who simply could not believe the magnitude of the Holocaust.
I would never dream of comparing the tragedy of the Holocaust to 9/11, but what I am saying is that if the conspiracy theory was true, then such a huge disregard for human life would put George Bush on a par with Hitler or Pol Pot. I know the man's a dick, and has been involved in some questionable ventures, but surely even he could not knowingly execute planned mass murder. If he could, then I think it's a sad day for humanity.
Now, I find conspiracy theories fascinating. I think they are enthralling stories about various incidents in history. However, to be honest, I don't think I really believe them. If these theories were true, then every tragic accident or incident in history has been orchestrated by someone or other with a hidden agenda.
9/11 I find exceptionally hard to accept as a conspiracy. The simple reason for this is that I can't believe anyone could be so evil as to plan the murders of so many people. Perhaps I'm being like people during the war who simply could not believe the magnitude of the Holocaust.
I would never dream of comparing the tragedy of the Holocaust to 9/11, but what I am saying is that if the conspiracy theory was true, then such a huge disregard for human life would put George Bush on a par with Hitler or Pol Pot. I know the man's a dick, and has been involved in some questionable ventures, but surely even he could not knowingly execute planned mass murder. If he could, then I think it's a sad day for humanity.
Monday, 22 February 2010
Sour Grapes
I think we all know someone like this - someone who likes you to get along in life...as long as you don't become more successful than they are. If you do, then watch out, because this person will do anything they can to bring you down, even resorting to bare-faced lies.
Why are some people like that? Life is hard enough as it is; why should we wish other people harm?
My sister-in-law is one of these people. I always used to like her, but my mom always used to tell me, "Watch out for her - she's a nasty piece of work."
I took this with a pinch of salt; but then I made the fatal mistake of becoming successful, so she lay in wait until the chance came along for her to bring me down, and God did she do so, resorting to absurd lies to try to destroy my life. How sick is that? It wouldn't be so bad if I had ever done anything to her, but I've always protected my family, and even sorted a problem out for her and my brother when they were conned by a double-glazing salesman.
I guess some people are just born evil and live their lives that way.
Why are some people like that? Life is hard enough as it is; why should we wish other people harm?
My sister-in-law is one of these people. I always used to like her, but my mom always used to tell me, "Watch out for her - she's a nasty piece of work."
I took this with a pinch of salt; but then I made the fatal mistake of becoming successful, so she lay in wait until the chance came along for her to bring me down, and God did she do so, resorting to absurd lies to try to destroy my life. How sick is that? It wouldn't be so bad if I had ever done anything to her, but I've always protected my family, and even sorted a problem out for her and my brother when they were conned by a double-glazing salesman.
I guess some people are just born evil and live their lives that way.
The End of the World?
Some people believe that the world is going to end in 2012. These same people believed the world was going to end in the year 2000, and about every two or three years since. No doubt if the world doesn't end in 2012 the doomsayers will choose another date for the world to end.
But what if they're right this time? What if the world does end in 2012?
Shouldn't we be taking this last couple of years we have left to put everything right? Shouldn't we be making everything right with the world and each other so that when the end comes, we can all hold hands and scream together when we're consumed by fire or whatever is going to end mankind?
Wouldn't it be cool if the world ended during the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London? That would certainly beat the Chinese one. It would be the opening ceremony to end all others...
But what if they're right this time? What if the world does end in 2012?
Shouldn't we be taking this last couple of years we have left to put everything right? Shouldn't we be making everything right with the world and each other so that when the end comes, we can all hold hands and scream together when we're consumed by fire or whatever is going to end mankind?
Wouldn't it be cool if the world ended during the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London? That would certainly beat the Chinese one. It would be the opening ceremony to end all others...
Sunday, 21 February 2010
Grumpy Old Man
I'll be forty later this year, and according to my daughter, this makes me ancient. I've noticed that I'm becoming more grumpy as I get older. Things seem to be bothering me more and more.
Nobhead drivers are one of my worst irritations - those people who just pull out on you, who turn without signalling, and ignore road signs that clearly give you the right of way. One of these days, I would love to drive my car into the back of one of those idiots that pull out on me, just to upset him as he has upset me.
Katie Price is another one - Why can't she just FUCK OFF!!!!!!
I'm sick of seeing her stupid face on the television and the front of magazines every day. I'm not interested in her stupid life and fame addiction. The only thing she's really famous for anyway is getting her tits out as the model named Jordan. So what? Buy The Sun newspaper every day - or just search Google - and you'll get all the tits you want (including David Cameron).
People who nick my parking space: I hate my neighbours' daughters. Every time they visit, they nick my parking space outside my house if I'm not there, so I have to park across the road. They even come out and move their car into my spot if I go out while they're visiting. There's a lamppost next to my parking spot which was once knocked over by a joyrider - why couldn't he have knocked it onto one of their cars? There is just no justice in the world.
Teenagers who walk slowly across the road and force you to brake. Aaaargh!!! Little shits! You're driving along and one of these little turds crosses the road as slow as an arthritic old woman, looking arrogantly at you as you are forced to put the brakes on. "ooh," they're saying. "look how hard I am."
Well, you're not harder than a ton of metal and plastic coming at you at thirty miles an hour you little bastard!
I think we should be allowed to run them over when they do it. They certainly wouldn't do it again, I can promise you that.
Television adverts: They drive me insane. They are so bloody stupid. There a few that I can't even watch, and have to turn over when they come on. My current most hated are "we buy any car", "118-247", and "Take a Break". I think it's the fact that they have these annoying little songs in them. They're the kind of songs that make me want to tear my ears off and puncture my eardrums with a cocktail stick. Why can't advertisers just say what they want and then bugger off? Why can't they just say, "Hey, we're selling this; do you want it or not?"
There are many more, but I'll post them as time goes on.
Nobhead drivers are one of my worst irritations - those people who just pull out on you, who turn without signalling, and ignore road signs that clearly give you the right of way. One of these days, I would love to drive my car into the back of one of those idiots that pull out on me, just to upset him as he has upset me.
Katie Price is another one - Why can't she just FUCK OFF!!!!!!
I'm sick of seeing her stupid face on the television and the front of magazines every day. I'm not interested in her stupid life and fame addiction. The only thing she's really famous for anyway is getting her tits out as the model named Jordan. So what? Buy The Sun newspaper every day - or just search Google - and you'll get all the tits you want (including David Cameron).
People who nick my parking space: I hate my neighbours' daughters. Every time they visit, they nick my parking space outside my house if I'm not there, so I have to park across the road. They even come out and move their car into my spot if I go out while they're visiting. There's a lamppost next to my parking spot which was once knocked over by a joyrider - why couldn't he have knocked it onto one of their cars? There is just no justice in the world.
Teenagers who walk slowly across the road and force you to brake. Aaaargh!!! Little shits! You're driving along and one of these little turds crosses the road as slow as an arthritic old woman, looking arrogantly at you as you are forced to put the brakes on. "ooh," they're saying. "look how hard I am."
Well, you're not harder than a ton of metal and plastic coming at you at thirty miles an hour you little bastard!
I think we should be allowed to run them over when they do it. They certainly wouldn't do it again, I can promise you that.
Television adverts: They drive me insane. They are so bloody stupid. There a few that I can't even watch, and have to turn over when they come on. My current most hated are "we buy any car", "118-247", and "Take a Break". I think it's the fact that they have these annoying little songs in them. They're the kind of songs that make me want to tear my ears off and puncture my eardrums with a cocktail stick. Why can't advertisers just say what they want and then bugger off? Why can't they just say, "Hey, we're selling this; do you want it or not?"
There are many more, but I'll post them as time goes on.
Corruption
I believe that there will be a terrorist attack in the UK in the next few months. No doubt Mr Bin Laden and al-Qaeda will be blamed. However, think about this: In the event of a national emergency (such as a terrorist attack), the Government has the power to delay a general election.
Think further: Gordon Brown and his so-called Government are probably the most unpopular thing this country has seen since the bubonic plague. The Conservatives are beating them in just about all of the polls at the moment. Finally, note: The UK terror alert has been raised to critical, for no apparent reason.
Watch out for minority men carrying rucksacks...
One final thing I have to say: If David - Mr Bandwagon - Cameron becomes Prime Minister, Britain is in real trouble.
Think further: Gordon Brown and his so-called Government are probably the most unpopular thing this country has seen since the bubonic plague. The Conservatives are beating them in just about all of the polls at the moment. Finally, note: The UK terror alert has been raised to critical, for no apparent reason.
Watch out for minority men carrying rucksacks...
One final thing I have to say: If David - Mr Bandwagon - Cameron becomes Prime Minister, Britain is in real trouble.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)