Crime Quote by Colin Flaherty
““mob violence is what the prison psychologist calls “infantile omnipotence.” This is the feeling that because something has not happened to you directly, you can ignore it. Like an infant who thinks it is not vulnerable to any danger, because all it has ever known is the safety of the womb or the crib. This is what accounts for widespread willingness to ignore the violence among members of the media and some members of the public, he said.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Documentary on prison psychology, 2019
People ignore distant violence because they feel detached, similar to an infant's false sense of safety, leading to societal apathy.
In simple terms: Ignoring far‑away violence feels safe.
Key Takeaway
Recognize distant suffering.
Themes
psychology
violence
media
societal apathy
Mood
somber
analytical
Type
social
psychological
When to use this quote
- journalism
- policy making
- community activism
Key Concepts
infantile omnipotence
detachment
empathy deficit
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we feel closer to distant victims?
- What actions reduce collective indifference?
A Different Perspective
Apathy can be challenged by personal stories.
