The punative aspect of American society is something I keep noticing as a Norwegian married to a American. I notice this over and over in every possible context. Americans are really into threats and punishment. There seems to be this underlying assumption in the system that everybody is a scumbag who needs to be brought in line, preferably with a cattle prod.

When American police arrest people they always seem to beat them sensless, tackle them to the ground or rough them up in some manner.

Children we are told by American pundits often need a good hard spanking to grow up and become good citizens.

Of course Hollywood movies sell the same American belief in violence. Bad guys get a "nice" beating. When they don't talk they get tortured. Torturing bad guys seems to have gradually turned into mainstream entertainment in the US.

Americans seem to take great pleasure in seeing people who "deserve" it squeal.

The American solution to all problems seems to revolve around violence: Need entertainment? Watch something violent.

Need to deal with crime? Get a gun to protect yourself.

Foreign policy failing? Invade and bomb that country.

Kid isn't behaving? Give him/her a good whopping.

Prisoner or suspect isn't complying? Give them a good beating.

And Americans wonder why there is so much violent crime in a society which is constantly tell its citzens that violence can solve almost any problem.