The Boston bombings

What are your thoughts on the recent attacks at the Boston Marathon?

It is very sad and horrible that society is resorting to killing innocent people for no apparent reason. Sophie Vella, 18, Bachelor of Communications with English.

It is shocking and tragic news, which I would never want to experience in my life. Terrorism brings fear and distress in our lives, rather than happiness and union, which is what every individual should aspire for. Jeanelle Cauchi, 22, Mcast Btec Higher National Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (Building Services Engineering).

When I heard the news, my initial thought was that they had something to do with terrorism. These attacks are cowardly. Three innocent people were killed and more than 200 were injured, for no reason. Kevin Pace, 22, Mcast Btec Higher National Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment.

What do you think provokes such actions? Why does America seem to be prone to such attacks?

I feel alienation is one of the major culprits. Housing such a mixture of cultures, a certain extremism arises in America, and the lack of proper homes and values to shape someone’s ideas, quickly leads to radical actions to prove points. Sophie Vella

The huge political power certain countries are perceived to possess, may intimidate others to a certain extent. Violence is used to remind the world that no one should be underestimated. The US is considered one of the most powerful countries worldwide. It is involved in almost all major international conflicts – some countries, groups or individuals may feel threatened by this and resort to violence to make their voice heard. Jeanelle Cauchi

The culprits suspected of these bombings might have been motivated by religion. They may have been brainwashed into thinking they should defend their religion through violence. I feel, terrorists do not target the US as a country, but they may have issues with its democratic principles, wealth and foreign policies, which may be deemed to affect their political or religious beliefs. Kevin Pace

Do you agree with the suspect being charged with using ‘weapons of mass destruction’?

I think ‘weapons of mass destruction’ were used to a certain extent. People were killed and severely injured and the surrounding area was damaged. One could call it mass murder. Sophie Vella

Yes, the charges are appropriate, as the tragic explosions killed three individuals and wounded around 200 others. Moreover, it seems murder was the primary intention of the two suspects. Jeanelle Cauchi

Yes, it is a fitting charge, as his aim was to kill and injure as many people as possible by placing the bombs in a crowded place. Kevin Pace

Interviews conducted by Insite – The Student Media Organisation.