Ability Quote by Richard M. Nixon
“The student who invades an administration building, roughs up a dean, rifles the files and issues 'non-negotiable demands' may have some of his demands met by a permissive university administration. But the greater his 'victory' the more he will have undermined the security of his own rights.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Campus Protests, Richard M. Nixon, 1970
Violent protest may achieve short‑term goals but erodes long‑term rights and security for the protester.
In simple terms: Violence harms the protester’s own freedoms.
Key Takeaway
Avoid violent tactics to protect your rights.
Themes
protest
rights
violence
authority
consequences
Mood
defiant
cautious
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- student activism
- university governance
- policy change
- public safety
Key Concepts
civil disobedience
power dynamics
legal risk
Questions to Reflect On
- What non‑violent alternatives could achieve the same aims?
- How does violent protest affect public sympathy?
A Different Perspective
Violence can provoke harsher repression and loss of legitimacy.
