Final answer:
The 'G' in movie ratings stands for 'General,' indicating the film is suitable for all audiences. The MPAA rating system also includes ratings like 'PG', 'PG-13', 'R', and 'NC-17', each indicating the suitability of the film for different age groups. Additionally, video games have their own rating system monitored by the ERSB, which also factors in content like violence and sexuality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Movies rated 'G' are intended for general audiences, meaning that people of all ages are allowed to view these films. The 'G' rating is short for General audiences, and it signifies that the content of the movie is suitable for everyone, without age restrictions. The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) introduced the movie rating system, which includes other ratings such as 'PG', 'PG-13', 'R', and 'NC-17', to help viewers understand what type of content to expect in a film and to guide parents in their programming choices for their children.
For example, 'PG' rated movies are generally aimed at a younger audience but may contain material that is not suitable for children without the guidance of a parent or guardian. The ratings system addresses a broad spectrum of content issues, including language, nudity, and violence. Given that the current generation might not know, the 'PG-13' rating was added in 1984, serving as a caution to parents about the content of certain movies that may not be appropriate for children under the age of 13.
Comparatively, new media, such as video games, also require content rating, which is overseen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ERSB). As societal concerns evolved, issues surrounding the sale of video games with mature content to minors also led to legal debates and a Supreme Court ruling in 2011 that struck down a California law on the grounds of free speech. This illustrates the ongoing efforts to balance personal freedoms with child protection in media consumption.