Read the following excerpt from Martin Luther King Jr.’s book *Stride Toward Freedom* (1958):
'First, it must be emphasized that nonviolent resistance is not a method for cowards; it does resist. If one uses this method because he is afraid or merely because he lacks the instruments of violence, he is not truly nonviolent... The method is passive physically, but strongly active spiritually. It is not passive non-resistance to evil, it is active nonviolent resistance to evil.'
Based on the passage, which of the following statements best describes the nature of nonviolent resistance as advocated by Martin Luther King Jr.?
- AIt is a form of passive submission that seeks to avoid tension by accepting existing racial injustices.
- BIt is a strategy designed primarily to persuade opponents through quiet compliance and legal appeals.
- It is an active and confrontational method of spiritual and political resistance that rejects physical violence.Answer
- DIt is a temporary tactic used by those who lack the physical courage or resources to engage in self-defense.
Answer
Nonviolent resistance is an active and confrontational method of spiritual and political resistance that rejects physical violence.
The correct answer is correct because Martin Luther King Jr. explicitly defines nonviolent resistance as an active, spiritually confrontational method that opposes evil rather than a passive surrender or submission to injustice.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Nonviolent direct action is an active, confrontational method of political struggle, not passive submission.
Estimated Time:45s