It's undeniable that we have evolved with survival as a primary goal. It would be difficult to argue against the notion that violence has been a persistent and integral part of survival, alongside other factors such as cooperation and knowledge transmission, which, though evident, still bear mentioning.
Violent impulses in themselves are not inherently problematic; they are a common aspect of the human experience.
However, it's the cathartic channeling of these impulses that is pivotal, especially from a psychological perspective. There's a reason why people congregate in theaters to watch horror films; it's not indicative of latent homicidal tendencies but rather a shared catharsis and identification with the characters' tribulations.
As someone who practices BJJ myself, I can speak to the mental health benefits and personal growth it has afforded me. Indeed, BJJ promotes respect, self-control, and an understanding of boundaries, resembling a form of play fighting. However, there is an inherent aggression in BJJ, which is one of the most assertive martial arts that allows practitioners to exert themselves fully to establish dominance. The absence of striking permits a level of continuous, full-throttle engagement that is not often found in striking sports, which demand more controlled aggression.
BJJ undeniably teaches violence and celebrates aggression as a core element. It is fundamentally about mastering the techniques of incapacitation and total dominance, whether through chokes or joint locks.
This is not to say that every man must engage in violent sports to validate his masculinity—such a notion is absurd. There are numerous avenues for competition and asserting dominance. Yet, in situations where dialogue fails, it's essential to recognise that physical confrontation can quickly become a reality.
While it may not be universally understood or accepted, many men historically have resolved disputes through physical altercations. It may seem crude, but I recall childhood fights that led to unexpected bonds of respect. It's a dynamic I've experienced a few times, transitioning from a fight to friendship.
If you want to delve into the biological underpinnings of this phenomenon, which has been observed many social animal species, including humans, look up 'post-conflict affiliation'. I find it endearing how we can merge a stronger bond after having gone through a shared intense experience.
