A recently released Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) document titled “Domestic Terrorism Symbols Guide”* links common protest symbols to “terrorism” — another marker in a common theme of conflating militant protest for social justice with deadly terrorist violence within the United States. Groups like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Brennan Center have raised warnings about such documents, citing inadequate protections for people’s constitutional rights.

  • archomrade [he/him]@midwest.social
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    17
    arrow-down
    4
    ·
    1 year ago

    There are attempts at brain washing on both sides depending on the agenda.

    The problem with this “both sides” bullshit is that leftist critique is nearly always targeted at systems, as opposed to reactionary ‘brainwashing’ is targeted at minorities

    A “radical leftist” isn’t out to murder anyone, they’re out to disrupt the system. As far as I’m concerned, the problem is almost entirely a reactionary politics problem, not a problem of firearm training and not even one of mental health (though they are contributing factors(

    Don’t conflate libratory movements with reactionary terrorism

    • SirStumps@lemmy.world
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      8
      arrow-down
      1
      ·
      1 year ago

      I am honestly loving your take on the subject. It actually made me think a little about what you are saying and the fact you are very respectful in your wording is wonderful.

      Can you explain reactionary brainwashing of minorities a bit further?

      Many far leftists I have run into have been very controversial or just plain rude so having someone speak plainly and respectfully is a nice change of pace.

      • archomrade [he/him]@midwest.social
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        10
        arrow-down
        2
        ·
        1 year ago

        I find your lack of irony refreshing, too.

        I’m confused by your question though, can you clarify your choice of using the word ‘of’ in the question “brainwashing of minorities”?

        It’s so rare to run into a reactionary conservative that’s so curious about left-leaning politics, thank you for your curiosity

        • SirStumps@lemmy.world
          link
          fedilink
          arrow-up
          6
          ·
          1 year ago

          I try to keep my perspective unbiased which is difficult because I am human after all. When conversing with someone that brings up interesting perspectives and does not devolve to name calling I try to speak with them further because those are the ones who’s reasoning skills tend to be more developed and make for better conversations over all.

          From how I understood what you were saying, there is a reactionary brainwashing of sorts. Perhaps I was incorrect in my belief that you meant of minorities specifically. I may have read it incorrectly.

          • archomrade [he/him]@midwest.social
            link
            fedilink
            English
            arrow-up
            5
            arrow-down
            1
            ·
            1 year ago

            Thanks for acknowledging your imperfect interpretation.

            I used scarequotes in the phrase you are referencing, perhaps that is where your confusion is stemming from? Brainwashing was used in your comment, I was simply making a reference to your usage.

            The point: reactionary politics identifies the “outsider” as the subject of opposition. Radical leftist politics identifies oppressive systems as the subject of opposition.

            Hence: the use of firearms by one group is simply not comparable to the use by the other.

            Hopefully that clarifies things for you.

            • SirStumps@lemmy.world
              link
              fedilink
              arrow-up
              6
              ·
              1 year ago

              Yes it does, I appreciate that. Thank you.

              Would you agree that reactionary politics is highly based on raised emotions or high tension to the outsider? Or perhaps a lack of understanding? Or maybe a lack of depth in sight?

              When identifying an oppressive system what are the markers of such a system? What qualifies as oppressive? Is it subjective to an individual or is there a science behind it?

              • archomrade [he/him]@midwest.social
                link
                fedilink
                English
                arrow-up
                7
                arrow-down
                1
                ·
                1 year ago

                Reactionary politics is less a coherent ideological framework and more a reflexive rejection of social change. It’s almost by definition oriented against minority social groups.

                Oppressive systems exist in all types, and there’s a great deal of study that deals with it. If you’re genuinely curious to learn more, I’m Foucault is who I am most familiar with and would recommend for anyone wanting to know more about structural analysis.

                • SirStumps@lemmy.world
                  link
                  fedilink
                  arrow-up
                  5
                  ·
                  1 year ago

                  I appreciate that information. I will look into it. I appreciate your willingness to speak with me on these matters. It is always nice having civil conversations. I hope you have some wonderful days ahead and happy holidays.