Extremism is immoral. No matter which extreme it is.
There's over 8.25 billion different human perspectives on this world and none of them are the right way.
Yet some might be going further than the truth then others.
The Morality of Extremism: A Complex Perspective
Extremism, whether political, religious, or ideological, presents a challenging moral landscape. While many argue that it is inherently immoral due to its potential for divisiveness and conflict, the nuances of extremism—both violent and non-violent—must be considered.
With over 8.25 billion individual perspectives, the idea that any single viewpoint can claim absolute truth is problematic. Non-violent extremism, in particular, can lead to dangerous complexities, as seen in the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989.
The Nature and Risks of Extremism
Non-Violent Extremism: Non-violent extremism hinges on a rigid adherence to ideals that may isolate individuals from broader society. While peaceful, this approach can be incredibly vulnerable, as demonstrated by the Tiananmen protests, where the reliance on non-violence did not protect protesters from a brutal military crackdown.
Complicity and Inaction: In some cases, extreme non-violence can become complicit in systemic injustices. The Tiananmen Square movement exemplifies how pure non-violence can lead to passivity, resulting in tragic consequences when faced with ruthless opposition.
Need for Adaptation: A purely non-violent stance, while noble, may not be viable in contexts where aggressive forces thrive. The protesters faced tremendous risks, and their strategies did not account for the potential for violent suppression, leading to devastating outcomes.
Toward a More Nuanced Understanding
Balancing Ideals with Realities: Acknowledging the complexities of non-violent extremism encourages movements to strike a balance between their ethical principles and the need for protective strategies. This may involve seeking alternative resourceful methods of resistance that do not forsake core ideals but ensure safety and relevance.
Learning from History: The lessons from the Tiananmen Square protests serve as a reminder that while non-violence can be powerful, the context in which it is employed matters greatly. Movements must assess risks and be prepared to adapt their approaches to survive in a hostile environment.
Conclusion
The morality of extremism is a multifaceted issue that requires a deeper understanding of both violent and non-violent forms. The stark realities faced by the Tiananmen Square protesters illustrate that unwavering adherence to non-violence can have dire consequences when confronted by aggressive forces. Ultimately, a nuanced perspective can help movements navigate these complexities more effectively while pursuing justice and change.
