Frank Rich

In the following viewpoint, Frank Rich, a columnist for the New York Times, argues that the debate over television ratings masks the larger problem of the coarsening of American culture. He believes that rating television programs, or installing a V-chip to make parental regulation possible, will ultimately fail to change Americans’ viewing habits. The rating system will also be ineffective because it will not apply to television commercials.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What does the author mean when he says the debate over television ratings is an “escapist sideshow”?
2. According to the author, why will American viewing habits remain unchanged by television ratings?
3. What does Rich believe parents should do if they are concerned about their children watching coarse television programs"

It’s always heartwarming...