Across the world, the roots of political violence can be traced to unresolved grievances, a weak sense of belonging and an unresponsive government. To reduce the tension in Hong Kong, officials should start listening to people’s concerns, and find new ways to redress wrongs.
Violence may have greater impact, but its rate of success is lower, the history of civil resistance shows. Hong Kong protesters must now choose between surrendering to anger or committing to peaceable ways to pressure the government.