Nathaniel Veltman Summary

Exploring Criminological Perspectives Through the Case of Nathaniel Veltman: From Murder to Terrorism.

Introduction: The chosen article, "How London Mass Murderer Nathaniel Veltman Turned Terrorist," published in the National Post on September 14, 2023, provides insight into the tragic events surrounding Nathaniel Veltman's violent rampage in London, Ontario (National Post, 2023). This essay aims to critically analyze this case through the lens of criminological theories, concepts, and themes prevalent in Canadian society.

Nathaniel Veltman's attack on a Muslim family, resulting in the death of four individuals and injury to a child, shocked the nation and raised profound questions about the rise of domestic terrorism motivated

In the case of Nathaniel Veltman, exposure to extremist ideologies and online radicalization played a significant role in shaping his worldview and justifying violent actions. The proliferation of extremist content on social media platforms and online echo chambers can reinforce and validate individuals' radical beliefs, leading to the adoption of terrorist ideologies and the commission of violent acts (McCauley & Moskalenko, 2008). Veltman's immersion in online communities that propagate white supremacist narratives provided him with a sense of belonging and validation, reinforcing his extremist beliefs and fostering a distorted perception of reality. The anonymity afforded by online platforms allowed Veltman to engage with like-minded individuals and consume extremist content without fear of social censure or legal repercussions, facilitating his radicalization and eventual descent into violence. Strain Theory: Strain theory suggests that individuals may turn to deviant behavior when they experience a disjunction between societal goals and the means available to achieve them (Merton, 1938). In Veltman's case, perceived grievances, such as feelings of marginalization or alienation, may have fueled his radicalization and motivated his violent actions. Economic hardship, social exclusion, and

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