The Power of Nonviolence Summary and Analysis

Dr. King discussed the appropriate use of nonviolence. Nonviolence, as a means of resisting, requires that those who follow this path to seek the friendship and understanding of the opposition rather than humiliation and defeat. Nonviolence arouses of a sense of shame and builds reconciliation and redemption within society. The goal of nonviolence is to change an evil system, not to attack the individuals who are participating in that system. Thus, the struggle in the south is not a tension between black and white people.

The moderation of moving forward with self-discipline and rationality is acceptable, while a moderation of slowing in the efforts for justice, submitting to the status quo is wrong. Dr. King declared that adjusting to segregation and discrimination is never right. In these matters, it is always best to be maladjusted...