The Military And The Media

I find it very interesting that in today's world, entertainment can be used as a recruiting tool and be so subversive that we do not even know we are being recruited. Media derives in all sorts of platforms. While most think of movies or television programs, this label also includes such outlets as video games and literary texts. When we think of the top ten selling video games, chances are several of those games will be war related. The U.S. Army has turned to creating recruiting stations in malls that are set up like arcades where the American youth can go to play war themed games and get, both, experience, and mentorship compliments of the U.S. Government. Is this ethical? Well some might argue that the Army is only creating an environment that is a positive outlet for young Americans. It could be argued that the children are not doing anything at the recruiting stations that they would not be doing at home by themselves. However, is it ethical to subversively advertise to and recruit children? This is a touchy subject. My opinion is that if these games are present in the home anyway, what's the harm in allowing the children to play them elsewhere. It is not the location that is the trouble, it is the content. It is the game itself.