Shiv Visvanathan implies that accepting violence has almost become a form of consumerism (“ >The commodification of violence ”, May 18). I feel this is largely the result of an erosion in social standards, a process that began from the last century. He has also not mentioned that an increase in violence is because of a breakdown in the family system. In the past, our forebears lived in a world where minimal levels of violence existed mainly because of a moral code of conduct, which was also a result of the culture of those days. As a solution today, we need to educate the young generation on the importance of good and progressive thoughts.
B. Yesu Nadha Rao,
Hyderabad
The example cited by the writer, of being approached by a woman worried about the way her children fight, is horrifying. One would have expected the writer to reveal what his response was, but one feels that the mother and the boy’s teacher are largely to blame for the boy’s conduct. If a son tells his parents that he wants to become a terrorist, it only shows that he has been badly brought up.
As the writer also contends that violence has become a part of modern life, he must note that it is not confined to the boundaries of any particular country. It has consumed the world and thrives due to unprecedented media attention. It was disappointing that the writer didn’t suggest any solutions. Though unsaid, the onus lies on parents and teachers to guide the next generation.
K. Rajendran,
Chennai
I disagree with the writer on some of his thoughts. It is not commodification and “consumption” that perpetuate violence, but political motives that are its source of inspiration and the trigger — as communal riots, forceful evictions from dwelling places and even imposed urbanisation. It is also promoted by the conduct of certain countries. Take the example of the U.S. which is largely responsible for global misery. The impact of its acts in West Asia, Afghanistan and Latin America do not need elaboration. Israeli violence against Palestinians is another example.
N.M. Mohammed Ali,
Thiruvananthapuram
The writer has only stated the obvious and did little to suggest remedies. That people are ever ready to release their pent-up feelings needs no reiteration. Our academic curriculum is also to blame as at no stage is there an urge to impart moral instruction.
Seshagiri Row Karry,
Hyderabad
