It's all in the Hormones

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Everyone has to admit that people are more cruel towards one another these days.  They are pleasant to your face, for the most part, but watch out for your back--watch out for the guy who lives in the shadows or even the guy who just wants to believe the worst in anyone and will call you a liar to your face offering no proof of the charge. Rudeness is a way of life and you're not supposed to defend yourself from these bullies.  Even Obama has sent out an email asking folks to watch his back no matter what horrible decision he makes.  Politics takes its toll. There are always some who believe anything said about anyone and fall into lock-step with the haters who like to play the blame game. Did you ever think that perhaps they are missing some hormones?

Bullying and anonymous cyber attacks are happening with rapid frequency thanks to social media they say.  Blogs make it easy for the bullies and this city sure has them. Neighbors "cop" a philosophy of  "live and let live" as they trash their property, allow lawns to grow 12 inches high, park cars on their lawn, have yard sales without licenses and tell local code enforcers to stuff it. People buy into condo associations agreeing to abide by the rules and then do everything in their power to break them causing law suits and unnecessary expense, literally telling their fellow owners to stick it. They believe that they can say anything and belittle anyone--right of free speech they say.

Perhaps if we can't remember our past and the gentler society of our parents and grandparents, we should take lessons from chimpanzees...they have more oxytocin which is a powerful hormone. Genetic differences in the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) have been associated with maladaptive social traits such as aggressive behavior. It was a kinder nation just a few decades ago. It can be again. Maybe now the cowardly anonymous cyber attackers and back-stabbers can get a little help. Maybe our neighbors will think about others beside themselves. Perhaps people won't be so quick to rush to judgment. Good thought for a Sunday.

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