National security expert Elizabeth Neumann discusses the Trump assassination attempt, rising violence in US politics, importance of local voting, historical leadership examples, and the threat environment in America.
High rates of violence justified for political aims highlight a concerning trend in American society.
Technological influence on identity formation increases susceptibility to extremist ideologies, emphasizing the importance of genuine human connections.
Deep dives
Increase in Violent Trends Over the Past Decade
Statistics show a concerning rise in violence over the past decade, with domestic violent extremism hitting an all-time high annually, as well as a notable cognitive openness to violence. An alarming 32% of Americans believe that violence is sometimes or always justified for political aims, with a survey indicating 44 million adults endorse violence for election-related outcomes.
Technology's Impact on Violence and Identity Formation
The surge in violence around 2015 correlates with the widespread availability of high-speed internet and social media platforms, influencing how teenagers and young adults form their identities. The reliance on technology for social interaction poses risks of susceptibility to extremist ideologies, gang recruitment, and human trafficking, shaping identity perceptions through online personas rather than genuine human connections.
Violence, Loneliness, and the Search for Significance
Increasing disconnect and individualistic culture contribute to challenges in finding significance and belonging, fueling feelings of despair and isolation. Emphasizing the importance of human connection and community, particularly within church environments, can address the void that leads individuals to seek recognition and fame through violent acts.
Impact of Political Rhetoric and the Road to Healing
Political rhetoric, especially when invoking violence or hostility, plays a role in fueling societal unrest and aggression. Amid expansive divisions, promoting empathy, grieving processes, and constructive dialogue at a local level can be instrumental in fostering unity and addressing underlying emotional turmoil in a polarized society.
The Trump assassination attempt, violence, and rage in America.
This special bonus episode of The Bulletin features a conversation with national security expert Elizabeth Neumann on the weekend’s assassination attempt of former President Trump and its implications on the upcoming election.
Today’s Guest:
Elizabeth Neumannis a national security expert, violence prevention advocate, and author of the new book Kingdom of Rage: The Rise of Christian Extremism and the Path Back to Peace. She served on the White House Homeland Security Council in the George W. Bush Administration, and as the Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism at the Department of Homeland Security during the Trump Administration. She is currently the Chief Strategy Officer for Moonshot - a tech-enabled company supporting governments and community partners to understand and prevent violence. She is also a national security contributor for ABC News.
“The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today