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10 established social science insights about unarmed dissent

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People are in the streets protesting Donald Trump. But when does protest actually work?

Recent data from around the world suggest that popular action is here to stay. In particular, civil resistance — where unarmed civilians confront opponents using protests, strikes, boycotts, stay-aways and other forms of nonviolent contention — is the most common form of struggle today...
And yet, this resurgence is commonly misunderstood or misrepresented. Here I offer up 10 established social science insights about unarmed dissent that everyone should know.

  1. Historically speaking, nonviolent struggle is a more effective technique than violent struggle.
  2. The number and diversity of mass movements matters.
  3. Nonviolent discipline is crucial — especially when the dissidents represent a minority.
  4. Mixing violence with nonviolent action rarely leads to change.
  5. Flexible and innovative techniques are key.
  6. The aim is to change incentives, not to melt hearts.
  7. Success takes time.
  8. Planning and staying on the offensive is more effective than improvising on the defensive.
  9. The jury is still out regarding the most effective form of movement organization.
  10. People used nonviolent resistance against Hitler — and it saved countless lives.

Click through to the original article for a paragraph description of each point.

Issues: 
Organizing/Protest
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Let's not respond to hate with hate, but rather be emboldened in our love as we battle bigotry and misogyny and fight to protect our planet. That's where #LoveAndResistance comes from.

Your heart is a muscle the size of your fist. You'll need them both for #LoveAndResistance.

Laryn Kragt Bakker

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