First, I did not advocate that we all should be forced to watch edited down versions. Like I said, we all deserve the choice. But why can't I have a slightly cleaner option for myself and like minded individuals? So I miss a joke or two' so what., its my choice. There are plenty of places (premiums, IFC, UniHD, HDNet Movies, Netflix) where you can unedited movies. But us that would prefer not having to hear f-bombs or see gratuitous violence only have the networks ad basic cable. Yes, personal responsibility is key, but does the choice have to be all or nothing? Can't there be a place between "Saw" and "Sesame Street?" Besides, like you tell me, you don't want to see it, turn it off and get it somewhere else unedited.
Yes, there are many movies (for example, the above mentioned "Animal House") that might be, for some, unacceptable under any circumstance. But there are others that walk a finer line. For example, "The Shawshank Redemption" is my favorite drama. However, I prefer the edited version. Do I really need to hear Clancy Brown drop the f-bomb 100 times to get the idea he's a sadistic man? Do I really need to see the Sisters beat Andy into a pulp to get that they were gang-raping him? Same with "Saving Private Ryan." Beautiful film. But still, do I need to see a guy get his head blown off to get that Normandy was a rough place? This is the kind of stuff that gave our grandfathers PTSD.
Also, many movies had gratuitous
junk added for shock value. Swordfish showed Hally Berry's tits just because they new teenage boys would go see the move just for that. The scene added nothing to the movie.
Also, it isn't just about "family friendly" I have no kids, so I'm not worried about what they see. Just because I became an adult doesn't mean I suddenly what endless strings of profanity shouted in my ear.