nonviolently

Nonviolently is an adverb describing actions taken without violence, typically involving peaceful means intended to avoid physical harm to people or property. It is used to describe methods in politics, social movements, conflict resolution, and everyday conduct when force is not employed.

The term derives from non- plus violent. In political and ethical discourse, nonviolence is both a philosophy and a strategic approach that emphasizes persuasion, moral authority, and discipline rather than force. It is closely associated with pacifist beliefs and with movements that seek change through peaceful means, such as civil resistance, boycotts, and mass demonstrations, as well as with nonviolent communication as a conflict-resolution framework.

Historical examples include Mahatma Gandhi's satyagraha and Martin Luther King Jr.'s civil rights campaigns, though nonviolent action is used in many cultures and eras. In practice, nonviolent tactics can range from protests and sit-ins to legislative lobbying, information campaigns, and economic boycotts. The aim is to achieve political or social objectives without resorting to physical harm or coercive force, though nonviolent campaigns may still involve risk, intimidation, or state repression.

Limitations and debates surround effectiveness, ethics, and safety. Critics question whether nonviolence can achieve certain goals or whether it places disproportionate burden on the targeted populations. Proponents argue that nonviolent action can be morally compelling, strategically resilient, and capable of attracting broad support. The concept also intersects with nonviolent communication, which emphasizes clarity, empathy, and requests rather than coercion in interpersonal interactions.

Related concepts include pacifism, nonviolence, civil resistance, peaceful protest, and nonviolent communication.