Power and Struggle: The Politics of Nonviolent Action

By Gene Sharp

In his groundbreaking work, Power and Struggle: The Politics of Nonviolent Action, Gene Sharp provides a comprehensive analysis of the theory and practice of nonviolent action. Sharp argues that nonviolent action is a powerful tool for achieving social and political change, and he offers a detailed framework for understanding how it works.

Power and Struggle (The Politics of Nonviolent Action Book 1)

by Gene Sharp

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3038 KB
Print length	:	429 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Sharp begins by defining nonviolent action as "the use of nonviolent methods to achieve political goals." He distinguishes nonviolent action from passive resistance, which he sees as a form of inaction. Nonviolent action, on the other hand, is active and assertive. It involves using a variety of methods to disrupt the workings of an oppressive system, such as strikes, boycotts, civil disobedience, and nonviolent demonstrations.

Sharp argues that nonviolent action is effective because it can create a crisis of authority for the oppressor. When people refuse to cooperate with an oppressive system, they can delegitimize that system and make it difficult to maintain control. Nonviolent action can also be used to build solidarity and create a sense of community among the oppressed. This can empower people to take action and to resist oppression.

Sharp also discusses the challenges of nonviolent action. He notes that it can be difficult to maintain nonviolence in the face of violence and repression. He also acknowledges that nonviolent action can be slow and difficult, and that it may not always be successful. However, Sharp argues that nonviolent action is ultimately the most effective way to achieve social and political change because it is the only way to create a just and sustainable peace.

Power and Struggle is an essential read for anyone interested in nonviolent action. Sharp's analysis is clear and concise, and he provides a wealth of historical examples to illustrate his points. This book is a valuable resource for activists, scholars, and policymakers alike.

Table of Contents

• The Nature of Power
• The Methods of Nonviolent Action
• The Dynamics of Nonviolent Action
• The Strategy of Nonviolent Action
• The Role of Nonviolent Action in Social Change

Reviews

"Gene Sharp has written the definitive work on nonviolent action. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how nonviolence can be used to achieve social and political change."

- Howard Zinn

"Power and Struggle is a brilliant analysis of the theory and practice of nonviolent action. Sharp's insights are invaluable for anyone who wants to understand how to create social change without violence."

- Angela Davis

"Gene Sharp's work on nonviolent action is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the power of nonviolence. Power and Struggle is a classic work that should be on the bookshelf of every activist and scholar."

- Noam Chomsky

Power and Struggle (The Politics of Nonviolent Action Book 1)

by Gene Sharp

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3038 KB
Print length	:	429 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE