A mixed reaction to machismo

Re “Knockout marketing,” Jan. 14

One had hoped that men would have evolved after the Roman Empire into more civilized human beings, but I’m afraid we haven’t developed or advanced at all. Before long, we will cheer on gladiators fighting wild animals as well. Unfortunately, greed, money and machismo are an important part of this spectacle. Can we not find more humane ways to fight our aggression? Can we not feel like men without being violent? Confident and secure men do not have to prove themselves to be strong and macho by kicking teeth out or by breaking noses. It’s barbaric and terribly immature. When will boys ever grow up?

ANDRE LANDZAAT

Ventura

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The tone of The Times’ piece on mixed martial arts insinuates that the sport is rife with knuckleheads who contribute to a degenerative society. The article highlights many of the sensational characteristics of mixed martial arts, but its practitioners and viewers are more complex than the piece alludes. Although children should certainly be shielded from the spectacle of cage fighting, my research on televised mixed martial arts has yet to support the notion that it is any more harmful to adult viewers than such prime-time fictional programs as “Law & Order” or “CSI.” Many men who engage in the sport are well-educated, well-trained, professional athletes who understand the risks involved.

NANCY CHEEVER

Carson

The writer is an assistant professor of communications at Cal State Dominguez Hills.

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The Times is part of the problem in our society. Why does this article have to be on the front page? And to do so on a Sunday shows that The Times has no respect for what Sundays used to represent: peace, love and family time.

LARRY DIAZ

San Marino