Why do you think people smash windows and set stores on fire?

I just read a little bit about the London riots which seem to have started with a peaceful protest and then spread when people who like destroying things took the protest as cover for their own “fun.” This made me wonder what motivated them, if it is not part of a political struggle.

Telling they are “bad elements” or anything like that isn’t helpful. I’m trying to get inside their heads. Are they angry with something? Then what? Do they love fire like some arsonists? Do they like to see things destroyed? If so, why? How does this please them?

It’s not just rioters, either. There are arsonists, some of whom seek attention. And some kids have a fascination with fire. Is that innocent or is there some anger underlying it?

What’s going through these people’s heads? Not just on a conscious level—because I doubt these thoughts are conscious—but on an unconscious level, as well.