In movies, most people don’t blink twice at immorality, even when it is extreme. Some even laugh. Why is this? And what price do we pay when we consume such media?
People love to be shocked and surprised. And we are already so desensitized that it takes more and more intense content to make people feel something. However, this desensitization has consequences. The National Library of Medicine says that, “Watching these kinds of movies can adversely affect the cortex, a part of the brain that is responsible for decision making and inhibitory behaviors. It also contributes to the increased incidence of risky decision-making and the reduction of suppressing misbehaviors.” In other words, it gives people ideas and the gumption to act on said ideas. Media violence can impair cognitive functions, largely decision making. It also increases stress levels, negatively affects the individual’s natural thought processes, and can sometimes lead to increased superstition/distrust.
The other side of the spectrum when it comes to immorality is sexual content, or content with the intent to arouse sexual feelings in the watcher/reader. New. CuanSchutz says, “Young people’s exposure to pornography may be linked to higher rates of personality and impulse disorders.”
Because memories with high or intense emotions are imprinted on the brain, when viewed, pornography becomes a part of the fabric of the mind, even becoming part of the individual’s personality and altering their natural train of thought. Just the same as taking a drug, more and more intense content and longer viewing time are required to achieve the same dopamine hit as before. It dangerously messes with and harms the brain’s reward system. An example of this is that men who frequently view pornography typically experience erectile dysfunction. This addiction can completely control the daily, hourly thoughts of the viewer, warping and twisting their worldview. This leaves the consumer unsatisfied with real relationships that will never live up to their sexual fantasies. If you’re wondering why Hollywood and other movie producers sneak in those gruesome fights, crude jokes, and sex scenes… Christiananswers.net says, “Every time you buy a movie ticket or rent a video, you are casting a vote telling Hollywood that’s what you want.” In other words, if it makes money, they do it again. Columbia scientists show that brain networks responsible for suppressing behaviors like inappropriate or unwarranted aggression become less active after the study subject watched several short, violent clips from movies.
“Exposure to violence [also] diminishes the brain’s ability to inhibit behavior-related processing.” It also reduces gray matter.
In conclusion, immorality in movies (and all media) is a dangerous thing, and studies show it is best avoided if you value a fully functioning brain.