Post a response to this discussion thread
However, it is partial true that it is used out of fear of the government. Ratings are an extension of the Hayes Office, which was created by studio executives as a compromise with the gummint to keep them off their backs. So, if admission to R-rated movies got out of hand and parents started complaining and asking for censorship, it would be really bad for the film industry, at least in theory. Anyway, I've heard of lax theater chains being cut off by certain distributors for too many publicized infractions of the system.
Post a response to this discussion thread
And check this out: The Top Posters' Page