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by andonisus
2140 days ago
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The problem with riots is they often get co-opted by actors whose goals are not in alignment with the goal of the original rioters. Also, there isn't usually a singular person, group, or entity who will take responsibility of the riots and say "We are rioting for XYZ reasons". Contrast this with peaceful protests, where the reasons for and goals of the protests are laid bare by its leaders. They are, in turn, able to promote their cause and have their grievances aired to the public at large. Finally, the destructive nature of riots poison the public perception of the rioters and their reasons, regardless of whatever just causes the rioters might have for their actions. |
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Keep in mind that coption (or corruption) holds true for all tools of power.
Regulation (capture). Legislation, executive, judiciary and bureaucracy (bribery, lobbying, special interests, nepotism, blackmail, ...). The press. Police and military. Taxes. Fines. Investigations (surveillance). Treaties. Emotions (fear, anger, guilt, embarrassment). Attention. Religion. Culture. Language. Narrative. Buildings, roads, ports, railroads, walls, canals, and tunnels. Bulldozers. Guns and stilettos. Bread and circuses. War. Peace.
Literally everything.
This doesn't make all of these bad, or mean they're never useful. But tools of power are useful because they do have effect, and can be used for both good and ill.
The trick is seeing the tools are used for good.