Read the excerpt below and answer the following question.
"Concerning nonviolence: it is criminal to teach a man not to defend himself when he is the constant victim of brutal attacks. It is legal and quite consistent with common sense to participate in self-defense where the government is unable or unwilling to defend us."
— Malcolm X, April 1964
Based on this excerpt, which of the following statements best describes Malcolm X's justification for the use of self-defense?
- It is a justified, common-sense measure to protect individuals when the government fails to secure their safety.Answer
- BIt is a passive strategy that relies on cooperation with local law enforcement to avoid demonstrations.
- CIt is an offensive tactic intended to initiate physical violence against white communities to overthrow the state.
- DIt is a call for African Americans to reject citizenship and emigrate to West Africa to escape violence.
Answer
It is a justified, common-sense measure to protect individuals when the government fails to secure their safety.
The correct option is supported by the text, which states that self-defense is legal and consistent with common sense when the government is unable or unwilling to protect citizens. This matches the idea that self-defense is a justified measure when state protection is absent.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The philosophical justification for armed self-defense as a response to the state's failure to protect Black citizens during the Civil Rights Movement.