Conventional weapons' normalization of mass violence: A systemic analysis of historical precedents and power structures
Original framing: “Conventional weapons normalized mass violence, researcher argues” — Phys.org
The study is deeply rooted in historical analysis, drawing from American and French military archives to trace the normalization of mass violence over the 20th century. It connects past patterns to contemporary violence, showing how historical precedents shape current military practices.
The normalization of mass violence through conventional weapons is not an anomaly but a systemic outcome of historical patterns, institutional structures, and cultural narratives.
By examining military archives, the study reveals how violence is rationalized and accepted as a tool of statecraft. However, the absence of Indigenous and cross-cultural perspectives limits a fuller understanding of alternative worldviews that challenge this paradigm. Integrating scientific rigor with ethical reflection, and amplifying marginalized voices, is essential to reimagining conflict resolution. A holistic approach—combining historical awareness, cross-cultural wisdom, and future modeling—can pave the way for systemic change and the de-normalization of mass violence.