Flash Mobs

The Time recently ran an article on Flash Mobs and the violence they evoke.  The concept of spontaneous gatherings is not new and thanks to our technological advancements it is much easier and quicker to facilitate.  But like all advancements, ways are found to use the good for bad.

On one hand, if you have ever tried to throw a party or organize an event, you know how daunting and time consuming it can be.  I am so amazed that our social networking skills allow thousands of people to join for a cause at the spur of the moment.

However the mobs are a problem.  In Philadelphia, teenagers are gathering to reek havoc on the city and for apparently no other reason.  I think the authorities are doing the right thing, by immediately instituting curfews and changes time validity of subway passes and even holding parents somewhat responsible.

Many think that the lack of funding for violence prevention among teens and the severe cuts in after school programs are adding to the intensity.  Kids don't have enough supervised activities so they are causing trouble.  Its not a new concept, just one more severe because of the ease in growing a group.

Just another result of city budget cuts having severe outcomes.