George,

I agree with Rey Barry about consequences to protesters--not because I fear the triumph of anarchy, but for a few reasons, some of which he enumerates. One, the point he makes that no one cause should be above the law, and also, that part of the point of a sit-in type protest (as opposed to a public-spaces protest) is the risk of arrest--putting your liberty on the line for the cause. But finally, because that is what shows the world that you are serious. Anyone can stand on a street corner holding a sign. But if you are willing to put your liberty on the line for your beliefs, then the world will see what you are willing to sacrifice for them--just as we are asking the soldiers in Iraq to sacrifice their liberty and, potentially, their lives.

If there is no cost, then the point you are making is just one world view being thrown out into the void among so many competing views. It gets lost. But the sacrifice tells the world that you are serious enough to pay the consequences--and it is therefore inspiring. That is what can make a difference, whether the cause is against a war, or for civil rights.

We are an orderly society, and whether or not ten people are convicted of trespassing will not change that. But it will make people sit up and take notice.

Valerie L'Herrou (electronic mail, March 4, 2007)