Few would dispute that American mass communication dispenses large doses of violence to audiences ever growing in size. Two related controversies stem from this fact. One concerns the question of effects and the other the problem of control. An inventory of relevant research is inconclusive about effects, partly because of varying conceptions of what constitutes evidence. A dynamic opinion process leads to control efforts.
Critics play a vital part in defining discontent.
A reciprocal relationship emerges between the public, the critic, and the media. American media respond to controversy and threat of censorship with systems of self- regulation. These grow out of public opinion and are sustained by it in a delicate balance dependent somewhat on developing knowledge of the effects of violence. The Present Status of Propaganda in International Law. As to the liability of states for acts of individuals, the special circumstances under which responsibility exists can be identified, with non- liability in other circumstances remaining the current role.