Although our disagreements are legendary, I am completely with GUEST, GUEST on that last post. Pacifism, as a theory, is admirable and makes for some very nice stories. But the fact of the matter, in the various struggles using it, is that it is simply one tactic. Real pacifism, as the base on which one builds their struggle, is not practical and just gives the wolves the ability to run rampant. As a tactic, it can be effective or ineffective depending on how it (and other tactics) are used.

It seems to this activist, that sometimes folks get all hung up on the philosophy, and lose sight of the goal, which is to bring about change. To do so requires a willingness to put oneself at risk, and use the tactics necessary to gain the goal. And of course it goes without saying that one must be very careful that they don't lose themself in the fight and cross the line which separates decent folks from murderers.

Mick