Taking justice into your own hands-the aspects of vigilantism

The term “vigilante” has roots in the Latin word “vigilare”, meaning “to keep awake”. During the Roman Empire, vigilantes, known as “vigiles”, kept watch on the fires and potential risks, including theft and the escape of slaves.

According to a Law Library online encyclopedia, vigilantism is defined 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 outlines two primary motivations at the core of vigilantism. Those in favor of “crime control” advocate for swift and harsh punishment for any (perceived) offender or transgressor. On the other hand, “social control” vigilantes aim to address a perceived violation of societal norms or threats to the social order.

Commonly, vigilantes lack trust in the justice system, consider it ineffectual, or simply seek someone to hold accountable. Consequently, they take it upon themselves to enforce existing laws based on their interpretation, definition, or understanding. They aim to prevent further transgressions or deter others from committing similar offenses, often through imposing severe penalties.

Features of vigilantism

Having explained what defines a vigilante and explored the motivations that drive their actions, let us delve into the common characteristics that often accompany vigilantism:

• Voluntary participation by private citizens: Vigilante actions are typically initiated and carried out by private individuals who voluntarily take it upon themselves to address perceived wrongs or injustices.
• Ideological support: Vigilantes often seek support from individuals who share similar beliefs, ideologies, or concerns regarding specific issues. This galvanizes their actions and bolsters their perceived legitimacy.
• Premeditated actions: Vigilante activities are usually organized, pre-planned, and deliberate. The individuals involved often strategize and prepare for their actions in advance.
• Control of crime or social infractions: The primary objective of vigilante activities is to control or address issues related to crime or violations of societal norms. Vigilantes see themselves as guardians or enforcers of a moral code.
• 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 threats and force: Vigilantes frequently employ intimidation, threats, harassment, or even physical force to achieve their goals. These tactics are a necessary means to assert their authority or deliver their version of justice.
• Online promotion and social shaming: Modern-day vigilantes often leverage social media and online platforms to propagate their activities and gain social popularity. They may publicly shame their targets, seeking validation and support from a broader audience for their actions.

Vigilantism sparks discord

As a political scientist, I find the phenomenon of vigilantism a complex paradox. Whatever reason a vigilante has for their actions, at its core, vigilantism threatens the democratic standards of justice and due process. Governments are the only entities sanctioned to utilize force to enforce the law, operating under the regulations of the established legal system. Hence, vigilantism constitutes a criminal act, as these activities fall outside the jurisdiction of an official policing or court system.

While individuals may use force and violence to protect their lives and possessions, the crucial distinction between vigilantism and self-defense lies in the premeditated nature of the latter. Vigilantism involves deliberate planning or patrolling to enforce a perceived sense of justice.

Beyond the legal dimensions, there is an ethical component that warrants consideration. Perspectives on vigilante actions vary significantly depending on whether one is the perpetrator or victim of vigilantism. Vigilantes may perceive their actions as essential and warranted; however, in their pursuit of what they deem justice, they inadvertently become victimizers themselves.

_{[1] https://law.jrank.org/pages/11129/Vigilantism.html}

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