However, disintegrating social structures and values have occasioned turbulence that affects people of every class, color and locality. Even when experienced as stark and brutal, the causes of violence are complex. Different forms of violence have distinctive dynamics and remedies. Social as well as individual factors are involved. Fear, anxiety and alienation are expressed through readily-available weapons of destruction.
Violence breeds more violence.
Incidents of violence stir up anger and a craving for vengeance. Possessing a gun is viewed by many ordinary citizens as their last line of defense against the chaos in society, or at least a means by which to get some respect. Such stances have their place, but also their limits. Although police and prisons help to protect society, they have no real effect on the causes of violence. More prison cells and larger police forces do not necessarily lead to greater security.