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I recently read an article that the Illinois legislature is trying to pass a bill prohibiting the sale of the video game Grand Theft Auto (GTA), saying that it was a direct cause of the escalation of carjacking incidents happening in and around the Chicago area. The article stated that the offenders are getting younger and that this game is making it seem ok to do this.

It reminded me of the attack on hard rock and heavy metal music that happened when I was growing up. It was assumed that listening to those kinds of music led to devil worshiping, dressing in all black clothing, painting your fingernails black and becoming an anarchist. It ultimately led to record companies having to put warnings on all of their albums, cassettes, and CDs. (If you’re not sure what the first two are, ask your parents.) To me, it came down to simple common sense. Yes, I listened to all of those kinds of music. I never did any devil worshiping, nor did I want or feel the need to. I did wear a lot of black clothing, but it was just what I liked to wear. I listened to that music because I liked the sound, and the rhythm. I would listen to it before games to get pumped up. I never felt the need to act out or cause trouble.

I have also played this game that they are trying to get rid of. I did not feel the need to go out and cause harm, or to steal a car and speed through the city. Is it my upbringing that stops me from doing all of this? Is it the fact that I didn’t spend all of my time online and spent the majority of my youth playing outside? We didn’t even have an online when I was a kid. We did have Atari and Nintendo. But we still spent more time outdoors with our friends. Conversely, I know a lot of people that do spend a majority of their time playing games and being online. They don’t seem to be car thieves. So, who or what is to blame for the rise in carjacking incidents?