When we step on or over others as we go through life, without helping them up and onward as we go, then we have been remiss. We are our brother's keeper. We fail as a society when we fail to teach others spiritual awareness by word, thoughts, and actions. This is not religious dogma or pious prattle but living principle. When apathy and indifference allow us to live far beyond our subsistence needs while others, or other segments of society, are lacking in basic shelter, clothing, food and medical care, we all are lessened.
Violence propagates violence.
Two working parents, single parent families, poverty, feelings of hopelessness, crime, violent and drug-infested neighborhoods, gangs, and other disadvantages are all contributing factors. No this is not an excuse, but neither is capital punishment the answer. The answer comes from within ourselves. In the end, it is the lack of spiritual awareness of our purpose in life on earth. Our purpose on earth is to live up to the fullest of our talents and abilities and to use these to help others do the same.