Violence is often seen as an aggressive act that harms people physically or psychologically.
It can also be used as a way to communicate and maintain power dynamics within systems of oppression. Systems of oppression are any social structures that reinforce discrimination, inequality, and disadvantage based on factors such as race, gender, class, ability, and sexual orientation. In these contexts, violence can serve several functions beyond physical harm. It can help perpetrators assert dominance, control, and subjugate those who they see as inferior or dangerous.
It can silence victims and keep them from speaking out against oppressive behaviors.
One example of how violence functions as communication within systems of oppression is in domestic abuse. Abusers may use threats of violence to keep their partners from leaving or reporting abuse. They may also use physical violence to show their partner that they have ultimate control over them. This creates fear and dependence, which allows the abuser to continue controlling their partner's actions and decisions. The victim may feel like they have no choice but to stay in the relationship because they believe their abuser will hurt them if they leave.
Another example is police brutality towards people of color. Police officers may use excessive force or deadly force to intimidate and silence communities that they perceive as threatening. This violence serves as a form of message to those communities that they are not welcome and must submit to authority. Victims of police brutality may be too scared to report the incidents for fear of retaliation or further punishment. This allows the systemic racism and bias within law enforcement to continue unchecked.
Violence can also function as a way to maintain social norms and expectations.
Rape culture promotes the idea that men are entitled to women's bodies, and women should not resist male advances. In this context, sexual assault is often seen as an expression of masculinity rather than a crime. As a result, many survivors do not come forward due to shame, blame, and stigma. This allows rapists to continue harming others without consequence and perpetuates the culture of misogyny and sexism.
Violence functions as communication within systems of oppression by silencing victims, reinforcing power dynamics, and maintaining societal norms. It is essential to recognize how violence operates beyond physical harm and work towards dismantling structures that promote it. This requires addressing underlying issues such as systemic racism, sexism, ableism, and homophobia.
How does violence function as a form of communication within systems of oppression?
The concept of violence as a means of communication is often associated with systems of oppression. It can be used by those who are dominated and subordinated in various ways to express their feelings, thoughts, and beliefs, and to gain recognition from others. In this context, it becomes an important part of the power dynamic between groups that struggle for control over resources, power, and social status. Violence can also serve as a tool for enforcing conformity and compliance among individuals and communities.