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Arts & Culture

NOVA: The Violence Paradox

Human skull. Violence is all over the news. But some say we're living in the most peaceful time in history. Journey through time and the human mind to investigate whether-and how-violence has declined. And witness how people are working to stop violence today.
© Guru 3D/80’s Child/Sascha Burkard/Shutterstock
Human skull. Violence is all over the news. But some say we're living in the most peaceful time in history. Journey through time and the human mind to investigate whether-and how-violence has declined. And witness how people are working to stop violence today.

Airs Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019 at 9 p.m. on KPBS TV + Friday, Nov. 22 at 11 a.m. and Sunday, Nov. 24 at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2

Has violence been declining for centuries?

Despite the constant news of violence, from mass shootings to wars, psychologist Steven Pinker believes we may be living in the most peaceful period in human existence.

Could it be true that physical violence has been in decline for centuries? And can it be prevented — or is it simply part of human nature?

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On "The Violence Paradox," takes you on a journey through history and the human mind to explore what triggers violence and how it may have decreased over time.

Taking clues from a Kenyan archaeology site, modern laboratory experiments, and even literature, researchers trace the social and neurobiological roots of human violence.

They look at how individual forces, like income equality or personal contact through sports may curb violence in modern societies.

And in places like Baltimore, where violence “interrupters” treat violence like a contagious disease, NOVA examines evidence-based approaches to making the world more peaceful.

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