>We were comparing the propensity to "demonstrate" in the 60s & 70s compared to today.
>
>While there is the element of demonstrations being hijacked by 'professional' destructors who travel from one to another smashing windows and overturning cars, etc, we felt there was more to it (not done any more) that just that.

Any decent organization of a demonstration includes a suitable set of security people, who will guard against provocateurs of the kind. I remember one scene from 1996, when a guy wanted to throw a piece of rock into a jewelry store window, when a six-foot guy behind his back held his hand and said "get lost, you horse, your motorola is sticking outa your pocket".

>We couldn't agree in our short discussion, but some things that came up included:
>- work, more than ever by all over 16 in any household, takes away valuable time;

While we work 7 to 3 at home, these riots usually took place in the evening.

>- similar to above, we are hostages to the banks, what with credit cards, mortgages, car loans and the "need" to keep up with the Joneses;

I never undestood credit cards. Seems like a voluntary leap into the hell of eternal ever-growing debt.

>- brainwashing by the media, not only by commercials but also by programming/content;

Just discovered that we didn't turn the TV on for three days in a row.

>- complacency, in that we all walk around thinking/hoping/expecting that someone else will address the problem;

And once they come to get you, there will be nobody left to stand for you. You'll be the last.

>We got back to work