Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 460.

YOUCAT Question n. 460 - What dangers result from the media?

(Youcat answer) Many people, especially children, think that whatever they see in the media is real. If in the name of entertainment violence is glorified, anti-social behavior is approved of, and human sexuality is trivialized, this is a sin both of those in the media who are responsible and also of those supervisory authorities that ought to put a stop to it.   

A deepening through CCC

(CCC 2496) The means of social communication (especially the mass media) can give rise to a certain passivity among users, making them less than vigilant consumers of what is said or shown. Users should practice moderation and discipline in their approach to the mass media. They will want to form enlightened and correct consciences the more easily to resist unwholesome influences.     

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) People who work in the media should always be aware of the fact that their productions have an educational effect. Young people must constantly examine themselves to determine whether they are able to use the media freely, with critical distance, or whether they have become addicted to particular media. Every person is responsible for his soul. Those who consume violence, hatred, and pornography in the media become spiritually deadened and do themselves harm.

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 2512) Society has a right to information based on truth, freedom, and justice. One should practice moderation and discipline in the use of the social communications media.

(The next question is: How does art mediate between beauty and truth?)