violence

            
             One of the most important and vicious issues that people have been faced with throughout history is violence, and the role it plays in society. In today's world, violence and violent acts have increased in number and in severity. The entertainment industry makes a large contribution to the spread of violent themes and messages. People can find violence in movies, sports and music, all of which can have a very influential effect on the way that a person may act and think.
             Movies have long been criticized for making violence seem fun, rewarding, and exciting. James Bond films are a good example of how violence is glamorized on the silver screen. Secret agent James Bond uses cool gadgets, cars and weapons in order to save the world. Not only does he blow up buildings and crash vehicles, but he is equipped with a license to kill, which he uses quite frequently. He is attractive, suave, and intelligent, personifying everything a "real man" should be. This role model commits countless violent acts, and treats women as objects, yet he is considered "the ultimate cool" (not including Miles Davis). In another movie, Romeo Must Die, the only way the hero can avenge the death of his brother is to kill the people responsible. The movie consists of car chases, beautiful women, and lots of Kung Fu. The fighting and killing seems extremely glamorous despite the violent images it sends. Other movies such as The Matrix, Starship Troopers, Commando, The Great Muppet Caper and Rambo, display similar trends.
             When it comes to violence, the world of sports is just as guilty as the movie industry. Fights, insults and violent acts (such as the slash to the head given by Marty Mcsorley,) occur in all sports right in front of the spectators. The fact that fan favorites are often the team enforcer (Tie Domi, a truly poor hockey player, is a fine example) is indicative of the values of today's society. Many people come to a hockey game in order to see a fight, and would actually consider a player who does nothing but break the rules, and slow the game down a "great player.