VIOLENCE A TOOL FOR CHANGE

VIOLENCE AS A TOOL FOR CHANGE

When looking at the smoldering, looted remains of a neighborhood or when viewing the shredded flesh of human beings after an explosion –
a microphone often carries the response of a witness to a waiting public. The question is most always, "Do you think this violence is anything other than mindless lawlessness?" That same question put another way, "Do you agree with violence as a form of protest?"

The witness usually stammers a bit and responds with words that sound empathetic to underlying frustrations but condemns violence. Whether it's violence against physical property or human beings, no matter where or when we are in time, a microphone may carry the same question and responses. My opinion is the question and the responses are at best ambiguous.

I have a question that may be a better starting point on the value of violence as a tool for change.

Here is the question: "What does our government and its citizens value most – Property or People?"

It is an opinion, but I think those who seek to damage or destroy property or people are seeking to damage or destroy others who hold them to be valuable.

So, a looter; an arsonist; a parent harming a child; a murderer; an invader is seeking to damage or destroy those who hold either the affected people or property or both to be of value.

Adolphus A. Ward