AQ-xingjie

The author of the Newsweek says that violence is higher in mobile and heterogeneous societies. This means that societies made up of people of different races and with immigration rates are likeier to experience higher violence rates. This is so due to the many varied views and way of thinking among the people which results in conflicts occurring or failure to assimilate into the local environment and way of life. This is of concern to Singapore as Singapore has a high immigration rate with people of diverse cultures. Close to a quarter of our population is made up of foreigners. For example, some foreign students who may not be able to assimilate into the Singapore’s education system which place high emphasise on excellence may ‘de-stress’ or let out their anger through violence means such as hurting others. However, other factors also play a part in affecting the violence rate. One such factor is the individual personality. More often than not, those who commit such violence acts are loners with few friends or companions to support them or offer a listening ear. For those with an open personality, they are able to make friends easily and find support from this core group when they are feeling down, instead of resorting to violence means to let out. Therefore, while mobile and heterogeneous societies do have a direct relation to violence, other factors such as the individual’s personality also plays a part.

Oliver Roy says that violence is due to inequality and cultural differences coming in conflict with high ideals. This means that difference in thinking, way of life, practice, income and what is the perfect example results violence. This is highly relevant to Singapore which is experiencing rising income inequity and foreign discontentment. For example, there were various protests by residents against the building of foreign dormitories or rental flats targeted at the low income near their estates. These residents fear a drop in their flats resale value and an increased crime rate. While the protests remained peaceful, it could turn out worse. Thus, inequality and cultural differences coming in conflict with high ideals does result in violence.