Plain English with Derek Thompson It's Not Just You: America's Epidemic of Bad Behavior
Apr 8, 2022
In this engaging discussion, Olga Khazan, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for her keen insights into social trends, sheds light on America's alarming rise in bad behavior. She explores how chronic stress and the COVID-19 pandemic have fueled violent crime and antisocial actions. The ripple effect of rudeness in high-stress situations is revealed, alongside the impacts of political rhetoric and isolation on societal norms. Khazan provides a thought-provoking analysis on how these factors have made communities more unruly.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
America's Bad Behavior Epidemic
- Antisocial behavior is increasing in the US, evident in various areas like the Oscars, airlines, schools, hospitals, and sports.
- This includes violence, unruly passenger incidents, and aggression, posing a sociological mystery.
Violent Crime Surge
- Violent crime is surging, with a record increase in the murder rate in 2020 and further increases in 2021.
- Aggravated assaults, car thefts, and carjackings are also on the rise.
Factors Contributing to Violent Crime
- Increased gun sales correlate with increased homicides, as more people buy guns and use them in crimes.
- Other factors like reduced police presence, unsupervised teenagers, and lack of structured activities may also contribute to the rise in crime.