Taking justice into your own hands-the aspects of vigilantism
Throughout history, individuals, groups, and organizations have taken matters of justice into their own hands. But what exactly are vigilantes, what drives them, and are their actions justified?
The term “vigilante” has roots in the Latin word “vigilare”, meaning “to keep awake”. During the Roman Empire, vigilantes, known then as “vigiles”, kept watch on the fires and potential risks, including theft and the escape of slaves.
A Law Library online encyclopedia defines vigilantism as “The act of taking the law into one’s own hands and attempting to enact justice according to one’s understanding of right and wrong; action taken by a voluntary association of persons who organize themselves to protect a common interest, such as liberty, property, or personal security; action taken by an individual or group to protest existing law; action taken by an individual or group to enforce a higher law than that enacted by society’s designated lawmaking institutions; private enforcement of legal norms in the absence of an established, reliable, and effective law enforcement body.” [1]
The definition highlights two key driving forces behind vigilantism. Proponents of “crime control” push for rapid and severe penalties against anyone seen as a criminal. Conversely, “social control” vigilantes target perceived breaches of social norms or threats to public order.
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In an ideal world, justice would prevail for every transgression. However, reality often falls short, and people resort to force and violence to exact revenge against those they perceive as wrongdoers.
Features of vigilantism
Having covered the definition and motivations behind vigilantism, we can now discuss its typical features:
- Voluntary participation: Private citizens volunteer for vigilante actions in which they combat perceived injustices.
- Ideological support: Vigilantes often seek support from those who share similar beliefs, ideologies, or concerns regarding specific issues.
- Premeditated actions: Vigilante activities are usually organized, pre-planned, and deliberate.
- Control of crime or social infractions: Vigilantes see themselves as guardians or enforcers of a moral code, so they primarily aim to curb crime and social misconduct.
- Perceived failure of law enforcement: Vigilantes justify their actions by asserting that they are a last option, because of a perceived failure or inefficacy of the established law enforcement system.
- Use of force: Vigilantes often use threats, intimidation, harassment, and even violence to get what they want. These tactics are a necessary means to assert their authority or deliver their version of justice.
- Social shaming: Today's vigilantes often use social media to promote their actions and gain popularity. To validate their actions, they might publicly shame their targets, seeking broader support.
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When the law has failed, it's easy to sympathize with a heroic vigilante who takes justice into their own hands. But vigilantism is way more complicated than it seems, as the following six examples show.
Vigilantism sparks discord
As a political scientist, I see vigilantism as a dangerous paradox. While it may feel justified, it undermines the very foundation of justice and due process. In a democracy, the government holds a monopoly on the legitimate use of force, but only within the rules and regulations of an established legal system. Because of that, vigilantism is a crime, since it’s outside the law.
Beyond the legal dimensions, there is an ethical component to consider. Vigilantes may perceive their actions as warranted, but they inadvertently become victimizers themselves. Yet, honestly, I don't know how I would react if someone hurt a loved one, and the perpetrator went free. Would I seek justice—or revenge? What about you? What would you do? Write me an email, and let's discuss vigilantism!
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