King's Explanation Of Nonviolent Direct Action

3. Define and discuss King’s explanation of “nonviolent direct action.” King first explains the idea of a nonviolent campaign by stating the four basic steps that it consists of, “Collection of the facts to determine whether injustices exist; negotiation; self-purification; and direct action”(337). Kings says that negotiations made by the merchants of Birmingham to take down humiliating signs were never fulfilled, so they became the victims of a “broken promise”. This is why they began to prepare for direct action. King states, “Nonviolent direct action seeks to create such a crisis and foster such a tension that a community which has constantly refused to negotiate is forced to confront the issue” (338). Direct action “dramatizes” the
He presents his position as the president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, which provides logos because it is a credible organization. Another great example of logos is when he says, “…I was invited here. I am here because I have organizational ties here”(336). He explains that he and his people were invited there and they can prove they were called there to engage in nonviolent direct-action.
6. What is King’s attitude towards his white supporters? What things have they done? King is extremely thankful towards his white supporters, unlike the white moderates and white churches, he knows they are committed to the revolution. He goes on to say the white supporters have written about their struggle, marched with them down streets, been in jails, and have been abused by police officers. He says they understand the immediate need for “powerful action” (348).
7. What is King’s criticism of Elijah Mohammad’s movement (which Malcolm X followed) and black nationalism? What is his warning to the
He gives examples of how Jesus was an extremist for love, Amos was an extremist for justice, and Paul being an extremist for the Christian gospel (347). He didn’t believe the word “extremist” had any negative connotation because you can choose what kind of extremist you will be. He says, “…Jesus Christ, was an extremist for love, truth, and goodness, and thereby rose above his environment. Perhaps the south, the nation, and the world are in dire need for creative extremists”(348). This quote hints at the fact that King believes his title of being an “extremist”, is just what South needs to begin the path towards overcoming