Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) and Representative Andy Ogles (R-Tennessee) have introduced a joint resolution that asks the media not to name mass shooting suspects.
Sen. Lee emphasized the role of the media in potentially amplifying mass violence. He argued that media outlets often focus on the perpetrators of mass murders, granting them the notoriety they seek and thereby fueling a cycle of violence, TruthAboutGuns reports.
“By refusing to give mass murderers the attention they desire, we can effectively combat the ‘media contagion effect’ that fuels more violence,” Lee stated. “Research shows that such irresponsible coverage can ignite violence and perpetuate a dangerous cycle of copycat killers.”
Studies, such as the 2016 report by the American Psychological Association, have backed up claims of a media contagion effect, suggesting that intense media focus on mass shootings can indeed encourage others to commit similar crimes . This resolution aims to shift the narrative toward a more balanced and ethical approach.
Dr. Jordan Peterson, a psychologist who has extensively studied human behavior, also weighed in on the issue, expressing support for the resolution. Peterson noted that mass shooters often crave notoriety and denying them this fame would significantly reduce their motivation.
