• Philosophy -> Political and Social Philosophy

• 0 Comment

How does nonviolence compare to violent protests in terms of impact?

Marylin Scotting

Nonviolence and violent protest are two very different approaches to advocating for change. Nonviolence involves peaceful means of protest, such as sit-ins or boycotts, while violent protest involves using force to make a statement, such as breaking windows or starting fires. Both methods can have different impacts, depending on the situation in which they are used.

In terms of immediate impact, violent protests may seem more effective, as they garner attention from the media and politicians. They create a sense of urgency and grab the attention of those who might not have been aware of the issues affecting the community. However, the long term effects of violent protest are often counterproductive, as they can lead to increased polarization and a lack of trust between protestors and those in power.

On the other hand, nonviolence has been proven to be more effective in achieving lasting change. Through the principles of non-violent direct action, nonviolent protests have the power to create a moral high ground for the protestors. This high ground makes their cause more sympathetic to the general public and helps to garner more grassroots support. Nonviolence also presents the opportunity to create a dialogue between the protestors and those in power. It can also lead to the enactment of legislation that addresses the concerns of the protestors.

Furthermore, nonviolent protests have historically been more successful in mobilizing groups and sparking movements that lead to lasting change. The Civil Rights Movement, led by Martin Luther King Jr., was a prime example of how nonviolent protests can generate support and bring about change at the policy level.

Therefore, while violent protests may seem to have a more immediate impact, nonviolence has more significant potential for achieving long-term change. Nonviolence is a more inclusive approach that values dialogue and cooperation, leading to more significant and lasting changes to the status quo. Additionally, nonviolence promotes a sense of compassion and positivity, which can serve the dual purpose of advancing the cause and enhancing the public's perception of the protestors. In short, non-violent protests have the superior impact on affecting positive change compared to violent ones.