What is to be done? That is the only immediately relevant question in the wake of violence that has plagued many countries already this year.

Terrorist attacks seem to be increasing overseas and suicide bombers have killed hundreds and injured many more.

Even now the United States is bracing itself for more violence on its own shores . . . from within.

When we take these tragic events into consideration, here in New Zealand we should perhaps be counting our blessings.

But we, too, have had far too much criminal activity over the past year.

This used to be a highly law-abiding country. No longer. There is not a city in the country today where elderly people are not afraid to walk certain streets by night.

Fifty years ago New Zealanders in most homes were happy to leave them unlocked if they walked down to the shops. Not any more. They even lock the back door if they’re working in the front garden.

Petty theft is rife, street violence is not uncommon and violence is often the result of alcohol or drugs.

What is the reason?

Some people will tell you it is because of deprived social conditions, aggravated by the recession and resulting unemployment.

They will say there is nothing for young people to do. And even that it is all the fault of the Government.

But they often seem curiously indifferent about the victims.

And what patronising rubbish they give! After all, social conditions in the days of our parents, grandparents and great grandparents were infinitely worse than they are today.

Besides all this, blaming crime on today’s housing conditions or unemployment rate denies the ultimate value and dignity of the individual.

Men and women act through their own free will. Nobody is compelled to mug an old age pensioner. Nobody is forced to indecently assault or rape another person or take their rage out on a helpless child. Thugs act the way they do because they choose to do so. Nobody makes them except themselves.