The Spectacle of Violence via Modern Mediums of Communication

Abstract

The danger posed by the production of images of violence lies in their ease of dissemination. Their consumption does not require the effort of reading texts or accounts. These images have now become one of the main means for recruiting young people who are easily beguiled by the constant flow of images that engage them emotionally, and that lead to brainwashing and control of their thoughts and feelings. This is apparent in frequent incidents of children killing their younger siblings after having watched scenes of murder, as well as incidents of children trying to copy suicide by trying to suffocate themselves, or putting into practice what they have learned from watching violent scenes. The danger lies in becoming addicted to viewing violent clips and reaching a stage where viewing is insufficient, but acting out and identification with violent and murderous behaviour becomes necessary.