[Epidemic]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Friedchicken100

Wha?! I don't get it. Are you saying we've always been prone to random acts of violence?

Absolutely! there has always been a jack the ripper.

http://www.straightdope.com/columns/020712.html this article sort of splits the difference. Long and short of it is that of the threats you face in life random violence ranks just below drowning in your bathtub and lightning strikes. Unless you live in a hotspot (where socioeconomic problems are rampant) then it rises all the way up to tripping on stairs.

You need worry more about your tire pressure and remaining brake pad life then being killed by a mugger in 99% of the land mass of the US.