From Annemieke Wigmore
“If violence occurs, there is an ever greater revulsion to it,” writes Ernest Ager in his letter (12 November, p 35) referencing Steven Pinker’s article (15 October, p 30). While it is arguable whether westerners are less violent: we are definitely more sensitive. That is, we have found ways to kill and wound the enemy without exposing ourselves to unpleasant sights, or indeed, personal risk.
We tend to prefer pushing a button from afar, or sending a drone. This is expensive, but usually safe for the pusher or sender; less violent, perhaps, but certainly more hypocritical.
Ilminster, Somerset, UK
