Militant extremists are one of the greater dangers for the developing world. They cause civil war, break down infrastructure, and kill an awful lot of people. These extremists depend on a ready supply of young men and boys to carry out their dirty deeds. This supply was easy in coming because the youth of these places have nothing to do and no hope for tomorrow. Video games have changed that. As it turns out, kids who play video games have less reason to join militant causes, because the games give them something to do with their time. The Guardian has the story.
It’s not just a matter of filling up time, chores and duties will do that, but no kid wakes up thinking, “Oh boy, I get to sweep the house today!” Video games give them something to do which they want to do. Games give them something to do tomorrow, and the next day. They look forward to their next trip to the game parlor. People who have something to look forward to aren’t likely to carry a grenade into a church.