

Bonus Sample: Beyond Violence and Nonviolence (Part 2)
May 19, 2025
Matthew and Ben Case dive deep into the intriguing world of strategic nonviolence, profiling Gene Sharp and his controversial funding sources. They discuss Erica Chenoweth's critique of antifascist protests and how property damage might hinder opposition movements. The conversation raises questions about the military ties in nonviolence research, with references to significant figures and organizations. They also explore the journey from spiritual resistance inspired by Gandhi to contemporary strategic approaches, emphasizing the balance between idealism and practicality in activism.
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Gene Sharp's Strategic Nonviolence
- Gene Sharp separated Gandhi's spiritual nonviolence from his strategic nonviolent action to create a secular framework.
- Sharp focused on nonviolent action as a pragmatic tool for political leverage, not a moral imperative.
Power Relies on Consent
- Sharp theorized that political authority depends on the consent of the governed.
- Withholding consent via nonviolent action can undermine rulers' power effectively.