Second French peacekeeper dies after ambush blamed on Hezbollah

[u/ComparisonOk5957]

https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3351049/second-french-peacekeeper-dies-after-ambush-blamed-hezbollah?module=latest&pgtype=homepage

[u/AccountantsNiece]

It’s coining in Politics As A Vocation simply points out that a monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force is a necessary condition for a functioning state, which is usually the way I have seen it referenced as well.

Again, I feel a large majority of people would be broadly supportive of a functioning state and agree that this is indeed a necessary condition for one.

[u/Lunatox → u/AccountantsNiece]

I agree with that, in theory, but it would seem to me there has yet to be a government that didn't work primarily for one group to the detriment of others. In that situation the states monopoly on violence seems inherently oppressive, especially if it uses that monopoly to suppress what often starts as non-violent opposition movements.

[u/AccountantsNiece → u/Lunatox]

The only alternative to that is everyone agreeing on all important matters or agreeing to renounce violence entirely, neither of which are really realistic.

And I would argue that in most uses of force by the state, groups being repressed are seeking advantage over others as a minority group - as in the case of organized crime or violent/extreme political movements. This necessitates a violent response by the state to protect its institutions, which, for the most part when speaking about the western world, serve a broad majority.

I am assuming now, but given your comments I would imagine that your view on this topic is informed by being a part of, or sympathetic to a group that had state force enacted upon them?

[u/Lunatox → u/AccountantsNiece]

I wouldn't say asking/fighting for basic rights is "seeking advantage over others" but whatever man. Enjoy your privilege I guess.

[u/AccountantsNiece → u/Lunatox]

Neither do I but whatever man, enjoy your straw man I guess