You're listening to the Economist's asks, I'm Anne McHelvoy, and this week we're asking

is violence an inevitable part of human civilization.

We've witnessed terrible scenes in Washington this week after supporters of US President

Donald Trump stormed the Capitol building.

The riot forced a suspension of a joint session of Congress certifying Joe Biden's electoral

victory.

Clashes with police led to the deaths of four people and left many onlookers wondering

how this could happen at the very heart of American democracy.

In her new book, War How Conflict Shaped Us Margaret McMillan gives a sweeping historical

perspective on violence, whether on foreign fields or closer to home.

It seems she says to have been present during much of the greatest part of our human story.

Well how will the disturbing events of this week fit into that history?

McMillan is widely known for her books, peacemakers and the war that ended peace and questions

the human motivation for fighting and the notion that peace is the default.

Margaret McMillan, welcome to the Economist's asks.

Thank you very much.

Now what did you make of the events in Washington seen from a historical perspective in a week

when there's been so much tumult mob violence on the streets of Washington at the Capitol?

I was absolutely stunned.

We've seen such scenes elsewhere in the world.

I wasn't around when the Russian Revolution happened and I wasn't around when the French

Revolution happened.

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