The article argues that asking whether nonviolence or violence is more effective is the wrong question to ask because:
1. **It oversimplifies complex issues**: The effectiveness of nonviolence or violence is highly dependent on the specific context, goals, and resources available. Different situations may call for different approaches, and a blanket statement about which is better can ignore important nuances.
2. **It can lead to a limited understanding**: Focusing solely on the dichotomy of nonviolence versus violence can limit our understanding of the variety of strategies and tactics that can be employed to bring about change. It's important to consider a range of methods and their potential impacts.
3. **It overlooks the importance of strategy and planning**: Effectiveness in achieving goals often depends on the strategic planning behind the actions taken, rather than a strict adherence to a particular approach. Strategic thinking and adaptability are crucial in determining the success of a movement or initiative.
Therefore, instead of asking whether nonviolence or violence is more effective, it is essential to consider the specific circumstances, goals, and strategic considerations involved in each situation to determine the most appropriate course of action. By focusing on understanding the complexity of social movements and activism, we can better analyze the effectiveness of different approaches in bringing about desired outcomes.
