Guns and Violins oops Violence

Ours is a strange culture.  We see ourselves as peaceful country, yet have a fascination with the violent.  We are not among the world leaders in homicides, yet we have a segment of the population that lives with the belief that they must have a gun to protect themselves and their property.  I always find it so interesting that in the vast majority of cases, homicide is a crime of passion and that most victims know their killer well.  I do not presume to tell anyone whether or not they should own a guns for their own protection, for that is up to them.  My purpose here is not to go on a rant about recent events and the need for gun control, nor is it to take the contrary view.  Rather it is just an effort to put order to my various thoughts on the subject of violence, guns and America.

Like many others, I watched the coverage of the events in Aurora CO with a perverse fascination.  It was like what happens when we come upon a wreck on the highway, we know we shouldn't gawk but we just can't seem to help ourselves.  We feel shock and grief for the victims, but also are drawn to the story of the killer.  We want to know all the gory details.  Our media and everyone else want to speculate as to the what, the why and the wherefore that leads up to such a horrific act.

Our captivation with violence and crime is seen in the fact that our highest rated dramas on TV are all dealing with murders, and unspeakable acts of violence.  Our cable channels and networks run almost non-stop programming about true crimes.  I find it incredible that we really can't seem to get enough of such programs.

Please notice that through out this I have used the pronoun we.  I do so because I am just as guilty as anyone else.  I enjoy watching these as much as the next.  I know for myself, it stems from that curiosity as to what motivates such acts and of the evil that is in the world.

Guns are a part of American culture, especially in rural areas.  Shooting and hunting are regular pastimes.  I see nothing wrong with own guns and using them for sporting activities.  I do know that many keep guns for their protection.  If they do so, I do hope that they have gone to the trouble of getting trained in their use and practice.  If they do not, problems will arise.  From my personal experience, I have yet to come across a situation where the introduction of a gun improved matters.

I know that we will not solve our duality when it comes to guns and violence in our culture.  We will always be a culture where guns are valued and violence is everywhere.  I choose not to dwell on the subject but realize that I am no better when it comes to this attraction to the dark side of society, I am also not immune.