The tragic plane crash blamed on a co-pilot’s seemingly deliberate actions naturally prompted many articles and news reports. Possible motives are surmised. If theories are correct, this and other heinous crimes may be attempts by certain individuals to seek infamy and we readily oblige. We see their pictures again and again, we read their stories over and over, we speak their names. And these names become synonymous with horrific acts, perhaps committed to achieve such ends, forever. We are at fault. We perpetuate their fame.
After an initial disclosure, why not simply assign the murderers generic pseudonyms: John #1, Jane #1, etc. or just an arbitrary number and no name or image at all? These titles will carry no renown. These individuals will be known only by an unimpressive moniker. If in fact notoriety is their intention, their quest will be denied.
This is one step we can take to discourage those seeking infamy at the cost of innocent lives.
What an interesting idea. I expect the Press would move mountains to be the first to disclose their real identity. There would have to be legislation to prevent them.
Thank you for your thoughts and taking the time to share them. I agree. Perhaps the identity would be permitted once, upon confirmation, immediately thereafter the alias would be used in all reports. Information could be accessed, but it would require investigative efforts rather than the inescapable present media frenzy. Anyway, it’s an idea.