I think that the saturation of our media world with violent imagery is a result of the increasing violence in the world. I have been unable to conclude whether I believe that violent imagery/media stimulates people towards violence. I have heard eloquent and convincing arguments on both sides (yours included). I do think that there is a profound desensitization that occurs, as frequent exposure --> the assumption that these things are commonplace --> less inflammatory reactions. Thank you for your exploration of this topic.