I've been reading Phil Musnick's Cassandra warnings in the Post for some time now, e.g.:
"It all comes together, from switching to gang colors to trash-talk. You can't sell bad and expect good in return. About 20 years ago, we began to sell "attitude," with the commissioners' tacit approvals. Boiled attitude is now served daily. Are we happy now? "
Here's the link:
http://www.nypost.com/sports/20771.htm
I remember in the mid to late 80's, the Detroit Pistons Bad Boys image - with approval by the league and sports writers. Those guys were thugs - especially Lambrier! Instead of stopping it then and there, all leagues gave tacit approval. Now we are where we are.