Noam Chomsky Was Right About Political Violence

Quick Overview

Political violence is a dangerous and self-destructive tactic that benefits the "hard right" and should be opposed by using opportunities for education and organizing, rather than by engaging in violence or repression.

Key Points: Right-wing extremists are responsible for the vast majority of extremist-related murders in the U.S. over the last decade, accounting for 76% of such deaths. Left-wing extremism (including anarchists and black nationalists) accounts for 4% of extremist-related murders. Domestic extremist-related killings in the U.S. by perpetrator affiliation from 2015-2024 show a significant disparity, with right-wing extremists responsible for the majority. The video argues that engaging in political violence is wrong in principle and tactically self-destructive, as "the most brutal guys win." The right response to violence is to use the opportunity for education and exposure, not to give a gift to the hard right while attacking principles of freedom of speech. Historical examples, like the Weather Underground in the 1960s, demonstrate how violent actions can increase support for the opposing side. The video draws parallels to historical instances of political violence and repression, emphasizing the need for constructive responses focused on education and organizing.

Context: The video features a discussion between Michael Walker and Aaron Bastani, referencing the views of Noam Chomsky on political violence. It contrasts the actions of right-wing extremists with the principles of free speech and democratic participation. The discussion is framed by the context of recent events and historical examples of political violence and its consequences.

Detailed Analysis

The video argues that political violence is fundamentally wrong and tactically self-destructive, benefiting the "hard right" and leading to outcomes where the most brutal actors prevail. Drawing on the insights of Noam Chomsky, the discussion emphasizes that the correct response to such violence is through education and exposure, rather than retaliating with more violence or engaging in repression. The video highlights that right-wing extremists are responsible for the overwhelming majority of extremist-related murders in the U.S. over the past decade, accounting for 76% of these deaths, according to ADL data from 2015-2024. Left-wing extremism, in contrast, accounts for a much smaller percentage. Historical examples, such as the Weather Underground's actions in the 1960s and the bombing of a building by an anarchist in 1917, are cited to illustrate how violent tactics can inadvertently strengthen the opposition. The core message is that resorting to violence plays into the hands of those who seek to suppress dissent and undermine democratic principles. Instead, the focus should be on constructive engagement, education, and organizing to counter extremism and uphold freedom of speech.