- Question
Is violence always wrong?
Violence is the use of force or power. According to the World Health Organization, it is divided into three broad categories: self-directed violence, interpersonal violence, and collective violence. The question of why violence is inflicted upon oneself or someone else is open to question. Could we categorize all violence as bad, or is some violence necessary to prevent people from committing punishable crimes?
Yes, violence is always wrong
This position holds that violence is always wrong, whatever its reason. It argues that violence is irrational, an expression of the ego, that it harms innocent people and leaves lifelong consequences — and that no cause justifies it, whether interpersonal, collective or self-directed.
No, violence is not always wrong
Violence is an inherent human behavior like joy and excitement. It cannot be avoided, but it should be numbed down in situations that require violence. It is necessary for introducing justice laws to prevent people from committing unjust harm in fear of the violence that might be inflicted on them.
Violence can be justified depending on the reason
This position holds that violence is not always wrong but can be justified by its reason. Its central argument is self-defence: when force is used to repel an imminent, serious attack, it is not merely excusable but a rational and justified means of protecting one's own life and safety.