There has long been debate in the social sciences over the relative contributions of socioeconomic inequality and cultural differences as causes of violence and as factors that would explain group differences in rates of violence. Neither offers a full explanation, but many social analysts, the media, public officials, and others favor cultural differences and prefer social policies that minimize the need for structural change or major government initiatives. Part of the reason is a characteristic denial of social- class inequality as a persistent aspect of the American social structure. As both culture and socioeconomic status impact on violence, policymakers should avoid an either/or mode of intervention. Education-oriented interventions may be effectively combined with job training and other economic enhancement programs for high-risk populations. 43 references