Delete Radical, Insert Violent

The idea that unalienable rights exist is a fiction—useful, of course; necessary, perhaps. I think it reasonable to guess that some readers once past their immediate reaction would allow that such a statement represents a radical idea.

Should a groom chose to wear his tuxedo backward and walk down church aisle backward, after other choice words coming to mind, again fair to expect some in the audience will assess the groom’s actions as radical behavior.

But herein lies the rub with radical as the word du jour: Depends on whom is doing the assessing. For some Islamic thinkers, Sufis are at least a radical sect and to some should not be considered true Muslims.

Dutifully note my hedging with the word some.

Linguistic flourishes have their charms, but I am pushing for accuracy over rhetorical sparklers—yes, yes, such a dreamer. To the point, then, if violence is being done, then let’s use the word violent as our adjective.

Not like we don’t have experience with the word: violent crime, violent demonstrators, violent history, violent tendencies, etc. Consider, then, that radicalism, and so the word radical, may not be the condemnation violent is when applied appropriately.

Play at home, girls and boys, as you read or watch news reports and speeches and analyses. Substitute violence for radical. Better, as in more accurately reflecting the point being made?

As a bit of lagniappe for the Mardi Gras season, think on the following notion. Violence is a radical response to the world. Or is it peace?