The Tougher Path to Freedom: Non-ViolenceVictory attained by violence is tantamount to a defeat, for it is momentary. Gandhi Im conflicted. More than anything, I simply want to live free. When others build walls against freedom, we must tear them down. But how do we go about doing that? How do we stop those that would lay chains over our wrists and ankles? Some advocate violence. Ive seen the calls for revolution and armed resistance grow in some circles in the wake of the Bundy Ranch situation. Ill be honest, watching video of federal agents pulling back made my heart smile. Sometimes we must meet force with force. I can somewhat sympathize with those who think nothing will ever change without armed resistance. But ultimately, I believe Gandhi was right. We will only find true freedom through non-violent means. Victory won at the barrel of a gun will prove short-lived. If we cannot find a way to change the system without resorting to violent means, we will merely rearrange the pieces on the game board. The rule of force and coercion will remain. Violence begets violence. When you use violence to change the system, you are not really changing the system. Violence is the primary component of the system. We need a new rulebook. The non-aggression principle serves as the cornerstone of my political philosophy. I have two overriding goals for society: freedom and peace. I just cant fathom that the best way to bring that about includes coercion and war. Im not arguing that we dont stand our ground. Im not arguing that we should embrace weakness. I am arguing that we should endeavor to stand our ground without resorting to violence if at all possible. Let our force come from our numbers, our passion and our higher principles. Overwhelm evil with goodnot more evil. Lets be honest: peaceful resistance is harder. Rage is easier than forgiveness. Brute physical force is easier than force of will. Hatred is easier than love. But if our end is a better society, dont we need to get there through a better means? As I said, I find myself conflicted. I know situations exist that would lead me to respond with force. But the apparent eagerness of some to provoke violent conflict alarms me. I believe we should take on a nonviolent posture as long as that option exists. Gandhi expressed the tension I feel perfectly in The Doctrine of the Sword. Michael Maharrey [send him email] is the Communications Director for the Tenth Amendment Center where this article first appeared. He proudly resides in the original home of the Principles of 98 Kentucky. See his blog archive here and his article archive here. He is the author of the book, Our Last Hope: Rediscovering the Lost Path to Liberty. You can visit his personal website at MichaelMaharrey.com and like him on Facebook HERE 