From here we see three key attempts to normalize children that come under the scrutiny of the filmmakers.
First we have rehab, or the psychological approach, which actually seems to work for a few seconds (or at least the course of a song), and to its credit the children seem to have better self control without losing the free will to curse if they wanted to. But criticism of this approach is made clear when the children are given the afternoon to reflect, and everyone goes out to see the film again. The reality is, cognitive psychotherapy that treats the individual can easily be undermined by its context.
The second approach is punishment, in the form of the V-Chip. After having it installed, repeated electrocutions instill learned helplessness to the point where Cartman doesn't use bad language and instead he adapts to substituting certain words. However, internalizing punishment never erodes a desire entirely, and often makes it stronger. At the climax, Cartman discovers the power inherent in his words, and in doing so is able to make an important statement by his actions.
The third method is to subdue those they oppose, and to drown out their views. In the UN meeting, the Canadians are made a mockery of for their accent, Terrence and Phillip merchandise is burned in the streets (like the San Francisco comic book burnings of the 1950s), and the two actors are apprehended with the intention to execute. What's interesting to note is how everyone goes along with it, even Conan O'Brien and Bill Clinton, just because their actions are promoted as being for the greater good, when in reality it's masking pure fascism.
And this brings us to American Exceptionalism. The assumption the parents make is that ideas and language are dangerous, but as the story escalates, the real assumption is that the American way of life is the right way. People are even asked to join the army to show their commitment to their country and see the ultimate American concert. Notably, the only people who see something wrong with this hysteria are the children, but their small revolution (both physically and in numbers) isn't strong enough to stop the people in power from acting in what they perceive to be their interests.
Article comments
1 - Sterfish
Excellent, spot on review of that movie.