In the wake of the Aurora, CO shootings, Erika Christakis in her article “The Overwhelming Maleness of Mass Homicide” asks the seemingly obvious question: Why aren’t we talking about the glaring reality that acts of mass murder are overwhelmingly perpetrated by men?
While mass media have largely addressed the shootings as a political issue (pointing to legislative reform on gun laws), Christakis explores the social risk factors that lead to such mass murder incidents. She opens up the discussion on why violence is being predominantly perpetrated by males. She doesn’t characterize men as inherently violent or aggressive; instead she points out the violent tendencies that are predominant in male youth. Coupled with depression or suicidal thoughts and these tendencies can fuel a violent act.
Do you agree with Christakis argument that violence is a public-health problem? Do you think that mitigating youthful aggression would be a more effective response to violence than reforming legislation?
Share your opinion!
Post submitted by: Miqi Cos
