Public Resource
What is nonviolence, and why use it?
Empowering Nonviolence
Nonviolence is based on a desire to end all violence – whether physical violence or what's been called 'structural violence' and 'cultural violence' – without committing further violence. Nonviolent activists also want their activities to be an expression of the future they are trying to create, and their behavior reflects the world they want. When they use phrases such as 'speaking truth to power', 'affirming life', or 'respecting diversity', they are invoking fundamental values that themselves are a source of strength for them and a point of contact with those they want to reach. Nonviolence strengthens a campaign in three main ways: 1) Among participants in a campaign; by fostering trust and solidarity among participants, they usually are put in touch with the sources of their own power to act in the situation, facing their fears. 2) In relation to a campaign's adversary; nonviolence aims either to inhibit the violence of an adversary or to ensure that violent oppression will 'backfire' politically against them. 3) In relation to others not yet involved; nonviolence changes the quality of communication with bystanders or 'outsiders' – people not yet concerned about the issue or not yet active in a movement, or people who could be potential allies.