Are We Really Honoring Violence Now?

A significant shift in public sentiment regarding the acceptance of violence as a means of resolving grievances has emerged in the United States. A survey conducted by the Public Religion Research Institute indicates that 23% of Americans believe that “true American patriots may have to resort to violence to save the country,” a startling increase from 15% in 2021. In the Republican demographic, nearly one-third endorse this view, particularly among supporters of former President Trump. This alarming trend underscores a deterioration of commitment to civil dialogue and adherence to the rule of law.

The recent assassination of a United Healthcare executive ignited a disturbing wave of commentary online. Some individuals within liberal circles have irresponsibly hailed the assassin as a symbol of resistance, arguing that this act draws attention to healthcare inequities. Such glorification of murder under the guise of justice is perilous, highlighting a departure from core moral values and democratic principles.

The struggles inflicted by our profit-driven healthcare system are genuine, particularly affecting society’s most vulnerable members. While this crisis necessitates immediate action, it is crucial to differentiate between systemic failures and violent responses. Holding corporate leaders, lawmakers, and regulators accountable is essential, but equating systemic injustices with acts of violence is dangerous. Rationalizing murder as protest not only weakens moral authority but also perpetuates harm, complicating genuine reform efforts.

Historical examples abound demonstrating that nonviolent activism can drive transformative change. Civil rights leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and figures such as Gandhi illustrate how peace and moral clarity bring about substantial justice. These movements thrived not by compromising their values but by inspiring collective action grounded in those values.

However, what are the consequences when violence becomes normalized? The acceptance of violent rhetoric and actions has significant policy implications. A diminishing trust in governmental institutions, media, and law enforcement encourages a perspective that violence is the only viable option for change.

Social media’s role in this climate cannot be overlooked. Platforms can amplify extreme viewpoints, cultivating echo chambers and prioritizing provocative content over constructive discourse. This challenge necessitates thoughtful regulation by policymakers to ensure freedom of expression without permitting the escalation of violence.

Questions arise regarding how platforms can promote healthy discussions rather than intensifying divides. Additionally, political figures must recognize the impact of their language. Rhetoric that romanticizes violent resistance or casts opponents as existential threats can lead to dire consequences, creating a necessity for a zero-tolerance stance on inflammatory speech.

Movements can become vulnerable when intertwined with violent acts, potentially alienating the public and losing the moral legitimacy needed to drive change. Violent acts often exacerbate polarization and may result in crackdowns on rightful dissent, ultimately hindering progress.

It is crucial to resist the allure of glorifying violence, regardless of the frustrations that fuel such feelings. The focus should be on advocacy, community activism, and democratic engagement, targeting the root causes of systemic injustice while maintaining ethical integrity.

Everyone has a role in counteracting this troubling trend.Whether it involves promoting civil discourse, endorsing policies that rectify systemic inequities, or demanding accountability from leaders for incendiary rhetoric, we reaffirm our dedication to the democratic principles that unite us.

Addressing these challenges requires the courage to build inclusive communities, not destroy them; to foster unity, not division. Should we fail to confront this growing acceptance of violence, we jeopardize the justice and democracy we profess to uphold.

Herb Paine serves as president of Paine Consulting Services, focusing on organizational development and change management. He is also a social and political commentator and a former congressional candidate.