After commenting that the human personality is shaped by the interaction of heredity and environment, the authors identify factors which make India a complex and often confused society. These include multiple religious beliefs, the grip of superstition, illiteracy, the caste system, and the waves of invasions over the centuries. The roots of individual violence, terrorism, and collective violence are examined in this context. The government's role in promoting violence is also examined. The paper details characteristics common to violent individuals, as well as environmental factors such as overcrowding which contribute to abnormal personality development. Strategies for changing violent behavior patterns in individuals and groups are outlined. Four references.