Lifting the Fog of Nonviolent War: How Protests Signal Peacefulness

Abstract

How can protest movements effectively signal nonviolence? Extensive cross-national research shows that audiences strongly prefer nonviolent protest over violent resistance. Yet establishing a clear reputation for nonviolence is challenging. Most observers possess limited information about protesters’ activities and intentions when forming beliefs about movement (non)violence. Prior studies show that protesters’ behavior and identity shape these perceptions yet leave much variation unexplained. Focusing on movement behavior, we test three techniques movements may use to prove their nonviolent character: through explicit signals of nonviolent commitment; by varying the disruptiveness of their tactics; and by establishing accountable leadership. Using two cross-national survey experiments, we find significant and substantive effects for nonviolent signaling and persuasive tactics, as well as unexpected evidence in favor of leaderless movements. We conclude that, while (non)violence is ultimately in the eye of the beholder, movements can successfully influence audience perceptions by directly signaling nonviolent commitment and by incorporating persuasive appeals alongside disruptive tactics.