By Jackson Santy ’13
THE ROUNDUP

When people think of words to describe the current generation the possibilities might be endless.

Words such as ambitious or creative are among what some people might say, but the word that comes to my mind is violent.

Our society thrives on spectacles of violence.

Our greatest exposure to violence comes from the media.

Movies, television and video games expose youth to a level of violence that was considered to be unthinkable just a few years ago.

According to healthline.com, the average child watches 8,000 televised murders and 100,000 acts of violence before finishing elementary school. That number more than doubles by the time they reach the age of 18.

These images of violence contribute to greater violence in society.

Video games like “Grand Theft Auto” are a leading cause in the rise of violent behavior in our society.

The game is a perfect example of violence without limits, doing away with all boundaries. It creates an alternate world where you can break the law as often as you wish.

Not only that, but we also worship a sport that’s only purpose is to savagely beat your opponent until he is unconscious.

Ultimate Fighting Championship follows the slogan “There Are No Rules!” Minus the fact that regulations have been put in place to ban throat-strikes and kidney shots, there are no holds barred.

Even The Arizona Republic has began putting these fights on the front page of the sports section.

Watching the spectacle of brutality and cheering crowds alludes back to something of a Roman gladiator duel, where crowds would take pleasure in watching the fighters fight to the death.

Exposure to these vicious displays of violence is leaving a lasting impression on today’s youth.

Parents wonder why their child is fighting at school when they allow them to be exposed to these exhibitions at home.

Depictions of violence are slowly desensitizing us into being capable of committing violent crimes.

If we do not take action and make an effort to reduce violence in the media then serious damages will be done to our society.