From time to time I wonder how bad it must get before society, as a whole, takes note, and if it ever WILL notice, or the descent into banal slaughter will be so gradual society recognizes its terminal danger no more than a boiling frog does. Not that I disagree with Amy at all; guaranteeing desperate, miserable, resentful and (usually) mentally unstable people the fifteen minutes of fame to which they feel entitled but could otherwise never obtain only encourages atrocities. Alienation is often an explanation, but never an excuse, and it should go without saying anything that obviously catalyzes brutality by those already mentally unstable is best avoided. Accepting the rule that "if it bleeds, it leads" is the short road to a hemophiliac civilization.

EDIT: As to your above question about why a society that has long had the capacity for frequent random shootings has only indulged it in the last generation, I believe I know the answer, but am equally sure you do not want to hear it, so I will let it pass. We both know what I mean, would not reach a consensus discussing it and this is not the time or place for that despite your offer of an ideal opportunity. I will therefore be content to know, for you to know I know, and to know you know I know.

It sucks that this happened. Again. It sucked last time, and will suck the next. Prayers are with past, present and future victims.