Fatal Attraction (1987) with Paige Harden

Virtuous Violence argues that many violent acts are committed by perpetrators who believe their actions are morally justified, such as enforcing norms or protecting relationships. The authors synthesize psychological and anthropological evidence to show violence often serves perceived moral ends for perpetrators. They challenge views that see violence as purely pathological or senseless, highlighting the role of moral reasoning in harmful acts. The book examines motives, cultural contexts, and cognitive processes that make violence appear virtuous to those who commit it. It calls for rethinking interventions by addressing the moral frameworks that justify violence to perpetrators.