In Episode #188, sociologist Dr. Dinur Blum joins Osi to delve into the social causes behind mass shootings. They discuss the complex role of mental health in these incidents and examine the difficulties in identifying and providing treatment for potential perpetrators. Dr. Blum also sheds light on how America’s distinctive gun culture and the ease of access to firearms contribute to the frequency of mass shootings. Additionally, they explore the effects of social isolation, loneliness, and alienation on individuals who turn to such violent acts.

Dinur Blum is Lecturer in Sociology at California State University, Los Angeles, USA. Beyond his work on student-athletes in college, he studies the social causes of mass shootings in the US with his colleague Christian G. Jaworski. He also co-hosts the Learning Made Easier podcast with Adam G. Sanford.