Schools of Nonviolence
There are two main ‘schools’ of nonviolence: the ideological and the pragmatic. The ideological school believes that nonviolent actions are based on ethical reasons and the belief in the unity of means and ends. Meanwhile, the pragmatic school sees that nonviolent actions are conducted upon the belief that they are the most effective method available in the circumstances.
Moving from the binary model above, which sees nonviolence as either ideological or pragmatic, Weber and Burrowes developed a framework which incorporates a ‘tactical-strategic dimension’ into the existing ‘ideological-pragmatic dimension’. While the ideological-pragmatic dimension shows the nature of commitment to nonviolence and the approach to conflict which the activists utilise, including the relationship between means and ends, the tactical-strategic dimension focuses on the depth of analysis, ultimate aim, and operational time-frame which activists use.
Tactical nonviolent actions are conducted through short to medium term campaigns to achieve certain goals within an existing social framework. Meanwhile, strategic nonviolent actions are based on a structural analysis of social relationships and are concerned with the fundamental transformation of the society. While tactical nonviolent actions seek reform, strategic nonviolent actions speak about long-term revolutionary strategy.
(taken from Weber and Burrowes, in Peace Dossier 1991)
