Coercion

Duress
Blackmail

Nature

Coercion is the threat or use of force to constrain another agent's freedom of action. Coercion and deception are two major ways to control the actions of others without their fully voluntary cooperation. The justification of coercion is often a major part of the justification of both violent and non-violent resistance.

Claim

Both the state and opposition groups use coercion to achieve political ends. Gandhi used non-violent methods of coercion, a moral force on the British. Systems of law are based on coercion.

Counter-claim

Coercion is often overstated as a significant issue, overshadowed by more pressing societal problems. Most individuals possess the agency to make choices, and the notion of coercion frequently serves as an excuse for personal failures. In a world filled with opportunities, focusing on coercion detracts from empowering individuals to take responsibility for their actions. Instead of fixating on perceived coercion, we should encourage resilience and self-determination, fostering a culture of accountability rather than victimhood.