Banning opinions is a sure path to violence
Sweden in Danger: The emergence of violence and restrictions on freedoms are raising warning flags. Here's a reflection on the looming threat and the importance of open dialogue.
I am fairly certain that there are forces within the deep state and in the darkest corners of the political left who would love to see "right-wing extremists" resort to violence in Sweden.
They might be disappointed today because the violence that is occurring seems to primarily involve imported criminals clashing with each others, shooting and detonating bombs in apartment buildings. When it comes to system-threatening violence (disguised as civil disobedience), it appears to be the climate extremists who harbor destructive dreams and dedicate themselves to sabotaging the infrastructure. Meanwhile, the "right-wing extremists" seem to be largely minding their own business, building for the future, and engaging in opinion forming.
Violence is always lurking
However, I don't believe these forces are in the majority. I think most people do not want to witness violence in our society. Frankly, one has to be quite unhinged and aberrant to wish for any form of terrorism. This does not mean that I fail to see that a violent future is highly likely, or that violence is a de facto extension of politics.
As much as I abhor the idea of violence in my society, I acknowledge that it is always lurking around the corner. Recognizing this reality is necessary, as my hope is that the more people who realize the trajectory we are on, the more time and space they will afford to alternative paths.
Everyone involved bears a degree of responsibility.
I want to share a quote that I believe encapsulates this sentiment excellently. I stumbled upon it on Twitter (a platform where succinct truths are often conveyed in this day and age). It goes as follows:
"Deprive me of any opportunity to express myself in words, and I will soon narrate my life story with my fists. Shrug your shoulders at every concern I voice, and I will shrug my shoulders as you plead for mercy. Let different rules apply to you than to me, and I will abandon all rules altogether."
Seldom have truer words been spoken.
How to keep the fists unclenched
There is much to admire about Sweden, though perhaps not so much about "Sweden Inc.". One aspect I cherish here is our civil liberties and rights. Despite the flawed nature of laws such as "incitement to hatred", I can still express myself, publish books, and organize to the best of my ability. Yes, even as a so-called "extremist". This level of freedom is not a given in countries like Germany, Russia, or North Korea.
The ability to freely express ourselves in Sweden is one of the reasons why our political climate remains relatively peaceful. When people are allowed to voice their opinions, their fists remain unclenched. It is widely acknowledged that violence takes over when dialogue is stifled or prohibited altogether.
Banning words incites violence
The moment you ban individuals from articulating their opinions, you move a step closer to inciting violence. This is because people don't cease to think, contemplate, or feel simply because the state has outlawed their views. They find new avenues to communicate their sentiments, and when all means of expression are stripped away, what is left?
This is precisely my concern regarding the developments in Sweden. We are on track to “harmonize our laws” with those of the EU (specifically Germany), hinting at a transition towards a quieter and less free society. It seems that legislative restrictions and repression are the chosen path of the government.
When freedoms are curtailed, it signifies the beginning of the end. History serves as a testament to this. Regrettably, the journey towards this end is both lengthy and agonizing. It is sadistic to attempt to rob people of their right to freely express their thoughts, and moreover, it is unnecessary.
"There is something stronger than all the armies in the world, and it is an idea whose time has come," says Victor Hugo. It seems that "Sweden Inc." fears the ideas of national sovereignty and a truly Swedish Sweden. /14