text: There isn't really hard evidence to suggest that it does affect our society in any tangible sense. There are studies which show that children who watch violent TV programs tend to show higher rates of violent behavior soon afterwards. But I don't believe there is anything to suggest that this is sustained over longer periods of time. Additionally, I'm not aware of any similar studies involving adults. It's been hypothesized that it could desensitize us to violence, thus making us more accepting of it. But, the opposite could also be true. Good question, but I'm afraid the jury's still out on that.