violence

Violence

Part 1  -  This article is about violence. Most of us want to avoid discussing violence, especially in ‘safe’ Japan. But violence is rampant in the world today, meaning it is everywhere, and according to research, it is predictable.  According to leading experts, we have a natural sense that recognizes violence. But because of our busy lives, we tend to ignore it.  In other words, most of us don’t recognize the conditions for violence.

Most of us don’t have to worry about violence on a day-to-day basis and we leave it up to the police and criminal justice system to protect us.  But for the global poor, often, by the time authorities become involved, it is too late.  And most violent crimes go unsolved.

Questions

1.  According to the article, do human beings have a natural ability to recognize violence?

2.  Do most of us recognize the signs of violence?  Why? Why not?

3.  Do most of us have to worry about violence occurring on a day-to-day basis?  Why?  Why not?

Part 2 - The second part of the article talks about who commits violent acts. Very few people will admit that they would be able to commit a violent act.  But in fact, this is rather strange as most of us would say, “Unless I was having to protect a loved one.” According to experts, we are all capable of harmful thoughts and even actions. Many murders are described as “inhuman,” but surely, experts observes, they can’t be anything but human. The majority of violent acts in fact, occur in the home.

So what are the typical behaviors of a possible attacker?  Experts say, watch out for certain behaviors, such as;  when someone approaches us without invitation.
  They’re too nice.
 They talk too much in order to distract us.
 They say things about us as if they know our personality type. They find a way to help us so we feel in their debt.  They ignore it when we say, “no.” They do all these things in order to is to make us engage with them.
  And a final warning, never change your mind once you have said “no” because then they know they are in charge.

Questions

1. Do most people say that they would never commit a violent act?

2. According to the experts, are most of us capable of violence?

3.  Give an example of a type of behavior we should watch out for.

Part 3  -                       The final part of the article looks at the lead up to violence.  The main point is that violence does not occur in isolation, but rather, it is part of a chain. Researchers have discovered four parts to the chain: The first is Justification—the person decides that they have been wronged. The second is alternatives—violence seems like the right choice. The third part in the chain is consequences—they decide they are not afraid if they are caught. Finally, ability—they have the skill to achieve their ends.

In the global context, experts have also linked the lack of economic development in the developing world to violent conflict in the community. As long as there is no basic law enforcement in the developing world there can be no secure private resources; except for the rich, who can afford private security.

Questions

1.     According to researchers, what don’t people in the developing world have?  What are the consequences?

2.     According to the article, is most violence a random occurrence?

3.     What are the four stages that lead to violence?