Assignment 2
Semester 2
DUE 16 September 2024
, 1.1 (a) Classification of Publications under the Films and Publications Act 65
of 1996
The Films and Publications Act 65 of 1996 establishes a system for classifying
publications to regulate content and protect the public. Two possible classifications
include:
X18 Classification: This classification is given to publications that contain explicit
adult content, such as graphic sexual material. A publication will be aw arded this
classification if it is deemed suitable only for adults and should not be made available
to individuals under the age of 18. Such publications must be distributed in a
controlled manner, ensuring that they are only accessible to adults.
PG (Parental Guidance) Classification: This classification is given to publications that
contain material which may not be suitable for children without parental guidance. A
publication will receive this classification if it contains content such as mild violence,
mild sexual references, or mild language. The aim is to inform parents or guardians
that the material may require discretion when viewed by younger audiences.
(b) Virtual Child Pornography
Virtual child pornography refers to images, videos, or digital content that depict
minors engaging in sexual activities or posing in sexually suggestive ways but are
created through digital manipulation rather than involving real children. This content
is computer-generated, and no actual child is involved in its production.
The legal position surrounding virtual child pornography is that it is generally treated
as seriously as real child pornography. The rationale is that even though no real child
is harmed in its creation, such material perpetuates the sexualization of children and
can contribute to the demand for actual child pornography. In many jurisdictions,
including South Africa, the possession, distribution, or creation of virtual child
pornography is illegal and punishable under the law.