Of course mass media has an influence on society.

[KharmaTrain]

19. The All Or Nothing Game...

Unfortunately the "discussion" about serious gun control begins to break down as sides are drawn as to the causes...with different sides and interests protecting their turf while blaming the others. As usual, the truth and reality lies somewhere inbetween. I don't buy the NRA bullshit that its video games and Hollywood as the sole cause of the gun crazy society we live in...but there is some merit to the desensetizing effects that popular culture can and does have on our society. Most of us don't notice or realize it as it's been pervasive in our lives from the earliest ages but we do live in times where what is seen or experienced is far different than what our parents or grandparents or great grandparents experienced. Does this mean it's a major cause that makes someone snap? Of course not...but can it numb someone to basic human feelings when stretch beyond the breaking point? That should be taken into consideration in addition to the serious problems we have dealing with mental health in this country AND the easy access to high powered weaponry whose only purpose is to kill as many people as they can in as short a period of time as possible. The disconnect here is those who have a rigid opinion and refuse to look at all factors that have led to these massacres and, sadly, are sure to lead to more. The madness won't end until people talk to one another, not past.