Philosophy Faculty Publications
Title
Rethinking Nonviolence: Intimate Abuse and the Needs of Survivors
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2005
Publication Source
Social Philosophy Today
Abstract
The paper considers nonviolence, not merely as a set of tactics for demonstrations and protests, but as a broad ethical ideal governing attitudes as well as conduct. I argue that the meanings of nonviolence—its relationship to personal and political honor and integrity—may differ with one’s level of privilege and social authorization to employ violence. Furthermore, the moral and attitudinal commitments prominent in some strands of nonviolence theory are in some ways at odds with the needs of survivors of violent abuse—particularly of the kinds typically committed by men against women and children in intimate contexts. There is thus an apparent tension between some of the commitments of nonviolence theory and our obligation to demonstrate solidarity with survivors. Recognizing and resolving this apparent tension is a necessary further step in the development of nonviolence theory.
Inclusive pages
225-236
ISBN/ISSN
1543-4044
Copyright
Copyright © 2005, North American Society for Social Philosophy
Publisher
North American Society for Social Philosophy
Volume
21
Peer Reviewed
yes
eCommons Citation
Whisnant, Rebecca, "Rethinking Nonviolence: Intimate Abuse and the Needs of Survivors" (2005). Philosophy Faculty Publications. 90.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/phl_fac_pub/90
COinS
Comments
Permission documentation is on file.