Chapter 5
In: Sights, Sounds, and Sensibilities of Atrocity Prosecutions
Search for other papers by Agnieszka Jachec-Neale in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Purchase instant access (PDF download and unlimited online access):
Abstract
This chapter examines the role of music in the preparation and commission of violent, and often mass, crimes by analysing three distinct case studies which include wartime violence, acts of terrorism, and genocide. The analysis suggests that lyrics, more than sounds, feature in the interpretation of the music that underpins the creation of various narratives enabling or facilitating the human behaviour that is associated with violent crimes. The chapter concludes with the observation that sound, whether alone, or in combination with lyrics, should not be overlooked as a powerful medium of communication which may play a significant role in the stimulation of violence. This chapter therefore translates how music sensorily affects violence and, in turn, how music’s influence in crime translates into legal proceedings that seek to bring justice to victims.