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.


The argument describes an existing problem - the electronic game rating system is not working. But it doesn't actually describe any reasons or problems that are causing the problem. So, the first step in solving this argument is to understand what does one mean when we say the rating system is not working and what is causing the problems in the rating system.

Firstly, we have to understand if the problem is that the number of violations of regulations is very high. Secondly, we have to understand the causes of the problem - Why are the regulations being violated?. Is it because of nominal fines or self-regulations or other reasons? We have to distinguish between the violations on whether they are intentional or unintentional.

As mentioned, because there is no single consortium or a body regulating the electronic games rating system, there is no standard adherence on some of the issues of rating system and there is subjective interpretation by individuals. As a result, the number of violations of the rating system are very high. We have to understand that these violations are unintentional and are occurring due to lack of single regulatory body or lack of knowledge. This could be addressed by allowing an independent regulatory body for the electronic games rating industry.

On the other hand, individuals are not adhering to the regulations because the fine violating the regulations is quite nominal. This is an intentional violation and the calls for a behavioral change. This could be addressed by imposing heavy fines on violating the regulations. There could be other reasons why the electronic game rating system is not working and we have to explore those reasons and causes.