The discourse entitled “The ways of meeting oppression” written by Martin Luther King, Jr. presents three different methods to address oppression, as specifically viewed from the perspectives of the Negros. These three ways of meeting oppression are through: (1) acquiescence, (2) violence or physical aggression, and (3) non-violent resistance. Accordingly, acquiescence is defined as passive assent to the current condition in silence and in complete resignation. Violence, on the other hand, is explained in terms of directly exerting strength or force to fight the oppressor. Finally, non-violent resistance is noted as the way that balances the extremes of the first two ways through potentially eliminating immoralities of the former ways. King expounds on each of the way of meeting oppression through initially providing an effective definition and description of the terms; as well as in citing examples that would illuminate the readers’ understanding of the scope and features within which each way is manifested and exemplified. Further, King effectively rationalizes how the first two ways are not effective means of meeting oppression. Acquiescence apparently invites immorality by either succumbing to indifference and cowardice for selecting to do nothing. Concurrently, violence is emphasized as impractical and allegedly resorts to leaving a legacy of revenge to future generations. As such, King affirms that non-violent resistance is the most effective means to meet oppression since it balances the former ways, rules out immorality, and does not resort to any wrongdoing. The author presents the advantages of resorting to non-violent means to include loving the perpetuators of oppression, enabling Negros to remain in the South, and encourages others to join in the plight towards equality.
Work Cited
King, Martin Luther, Jr. “The ways of meeting oppression.” N.d. Print.
