Analysis
I find the chapter interesting because it addresses the issue of violent crime in the United States, which has been a problem affecting almost all communities, regions, and states. In particular, I developed an interest in the history and origins of violent crime in the US. For instance, I have found the chapter important in developing an in-depth illustration and analysis of the previous materials. Noteworthy, it has categorized origins and causes of violent crime in the US into specific groups, which indicates that the origins of violent crimes in the US are multiple. For instance, I have noted that the declaration of independence is one of the most important origins of violent crime in the country. Arguably, I agree with the chapter because the declaration of independence has both positive and negative impacts on society. While the event led to political freedom and liberty, it also led to a sense of individual liberty, which causes deviance in society. Moreover, I tend to agree with the notion that the industrial revolution and rural-urban migration have contributed to the long history of violence in the US. In particular, the concentration of people in cities and towns led to increased crime in the culture. The large populations provided easy targets for the gun, drug, and other illegal trades.
Reflection on facts in the chapter
Several facts have emerged in the chapter, which is worth appraisal. I have found the chapter important in developing a consistent categorization of the types of violent crimes common in the US today. The categorization is consistent with the class readings, which classify the various types of violent crimes common in the modern world. For example, it provides several real examples of violent crimes in the US. The classification is primarily based on the mode of violence, the aim of the offender, and the extent of the action. The introduction of new terms such as “multicide” is an important aspect of this chapter. This term is an example of the categories of classification based on the extent of the act of violence. I find this classification necessary for identifying types of violence common in society. Such terms should not only be used in academics but also in policy-making, judicial and security systems. For instance, terms such as “serial murder” and “spree murder” were not present in the previous literature, even though they have a different nature from other types of murder such as genocide.
Within the American context, it is surprising to note that racial disparities and economic inequalities are still the major variables that determine or influence violent crimes in almost all regions. This is a fact that is analyzed in the chapter. For instance, violent crimes such as spree and mass murder often portray evidence of racial hatred. For instance, such cases as Wayne Williams’ murder of more than 25 black people resulted from an individual hatred and perception of other races. I believe that this type of violence is still possible in the US because racial disparities and economic inequalities are still some of the major problems we are facing.
Thirdly, I tend to agree with the chapter on the argument against foreign immigration. According to this notion, immigrants are the major causes of violence and violent crime in American society. I tend to agree with this notion because statistics indicate that foreigners, especially immigrants from South American and Mexico, play an important role in the rate of growth and development of violence and violent crimes. For instance, during the “crack era” of the 1980s and 1990s, most of the perpetrators of cocaine-related violence were immigrants from Latin American and Mexico.
In my opinion, Chapter 9 of the book provides evidence of the types, causes, and origins of violent crimes in the US. I appraise the book for its in-depth analysis of violence and violent crimes. I also find it important in studying and policy making because it has provided evidence of an in-depth analysis of the situation and past events.