Suggested reading: Mirriam Webster
Violence 1 a : exertion of physical force so as to injure or abuse (as in effecting illegal entry into a house) b : an instance of violent treatment or procedure
Force 1 a (1) : strength or energy exerted or brought to bear : cause of motion or change : active power <the forces of nature> <the motivating force in her life>
While violence can be considered one type of "force" the terms are NOT mutually exclusive. Violence is only one type of force, but NOT the only type of force. Thus are they cannot be considered to be one and the same.
force is required for violence, but violence is not required for force
As for the British in India, the force of international public opinion never precluded the use of poison gas or any other other violent action against an unarmed population in an effort to control "their" colony. However, the use of violence against a peaceful (albeit confrontational) populace is exactly what caused the British to LOSE India. The force and power of moral indignation and public opinion DID overcome the force and power of guns and bullets.
As I understand them, the historical facts are thus: while the British won militarily in every violent confrontation with the Indian people, they lost the war for hearts and minds around the world because they demonstrated a willingness to cause harm to an unarmed, nonviolent "enemy," and thus, lost their colony. By using violence, they willingly surrendered the moral high ground, and handed India to Indians who were willing to sacrifice themselves for freedom and the greater good without resorting to violence. If my understanding of history is not accurate, please provide documentation of any errors.
PS - if "violence = force" then force = violence (if you use "=" by definition it's not a "rather" type situation)
PPS
"Before you start calling me names" - ??? Is this a request? Because I don't believe I have - Normally, when I do, there is no doubt (I'm no Gandhi). However, if you feel that the presentation of an alternative point of view is an insult, I offer my most humble and contrite apologies. But unless offered facts, I will not change my opinion, nor will either of our opinions change history. |
