An exploration of a modern 2024 phenomenon of “terrorism”.
Investigating the origins/etymology of the word “terrorism” I discover that it comes from:
“1795, in reference to Jacobins during the French Revolution, from French terroriste; see terror + -ist, and compare terrorism. Originally of state intimidation and government coercion by methods of terror”
(Source etymology online)
Now, in 2024 that definition has totally been turned around to mean in Australia, “A terrorist act is an act, or a threat to commit an act, that is done with the intention to coerce. or influence the public or any government by intimidation to advance a political, religious or. ideological cause, and the act causes: • death or serious harm or endangers life.” (Source, livinggsafetogether.gov.au)
What if we are to apply the original definition to governments of today, no specific fingers pointed.
The term “terrorism” has evolved significantly since its origins in the French Revolution. While it was initially used to describe state-sponsored intimidation, its modern usage often refers to acts of violence perpetrated by non-state actors with the intent to intimidate or coerce a population or government.
Examples of modern-day state intimidation and government coercion, while not always explicitly labeled as “terrorism,” can include:
Surveillance and Mass Surveillance: Governments may use extensive surveillance programs to monitor citizens’ activities, potentially leading to intimidation and a sense of being constantly watched. Examples. CCTV, licence plate detection, mobile phone detection, speed cameras, Central Bank Digital Currency, Digital ID, Voice sign in, fingerprint sign in, facial recognition, PayWave, RFID,
Censorship and Restrictions on Free Speech: Governments may impose strict censorship laws or limits on free speech to suppress dissent and control public discourse.
The Australian government misinformation and disinformation bill.
Intimidation of Political Opponents: Governments may use tactics such as harassment, threats, or imprisonment to silence political opponents or suppress opposition movements.
The Australian government misinformation and disinformation bill.
Use of Force Against Protests: Governments may deploy excessive force against peaceful protests, leading to intimidation and a chilling effect on dissent.
We have seen plenty of this in the state of Victoria, Australia as well as in Canada.
Economic Coercion: Governments may use economic sanctions or trade restrictions to pressure other countries or individuals into compliance, potentially leading to hardship and intimidation.
Examples TAX, Fines, prison, people being debanked in many countries. Economic sanctions against Russia.
When we apply the strict definition, then surely the governments are the ones ruling by fear and intimidation.
The use of force or coercion by governments is a sensitive issue with varying interpretations and ethical considerations.
Terrorism typically involves violence or threats of violence intended to achieve political goals. So ask yourself today, is my government terrorising its people?
The Tale of the Dragon and the Butterfly
In a land under a dragon’s reign,
Peace once flowed like a gentle stream.
Wisdom and compassion graced its rule,
Yet time’s embrace hardened scales with fear.
Walls rose high, rivers were dammed,
The land’s vibrant heart grew dim.
Eyes that once offered gentle watch,
Now pierced through the lives of its people.
From a hidden garden, a butterfly emerged,
Wings aglow with hope and freedom’s hues.
It danced unaware of the darkened skies,
Of the fear that clouded the land below.
Seeing shadows cast upon the joy,
The butterfly fluttered toward the walls,
Its delicate wings brushing against stone,
Defying the dragon’s fiery wrath.
The dragon’s fire met with light,
The butterfly’s wings shimmered bright.
Its courage stirred the hearts of many,
Questioning the dragon’s fearful might.
And so, the dragon withdrew in dread,
Its roar now a whisper in the night.
The butterfly’s flight, a spark of change,
Proved even the small could challenge the dark.
Please share this widely.
Thundercloud Repairian 