Deep Violence: Military Violence, War Play, and the Social Life of Weapons

War is often considered a necessary evil since countries are expected to create a proper defense to protect their citizens. Bourke (The Story of Pain) evaluates the effect war has on society and the deeply internalized characteristics violence has on the purveyors and all involved citizens. She argues that such behavior causes a regression to primitive forms of life and uses the example of military personnel who are "programmed" to kill and given lessons in aggression rather than international problem-solving techniques, also noting how battle can provide a "rush" separate from all known forms of excitement. Bourke believes the human race is largely peaceful; few actually enjoy hurting others, she says, and we seek actively the eradication of other people's suffering. She offers hope that perhaps in the future we will live in a world that takes alternative approaches to international affairs. At first glance, this sentiment seems naive and romantic, but optimism is to be credited. While maintaining that armed conflict is inevitable, Bourke also believes it is utterly realistic to resist the militarization of our society.