Demonstrations & political violence in America: New data for summer 2020
It seems the present source is arguing that the demonstration activity in the USA is undergoing certain changes associated with an increasing degree of violence. Data regarding the latest demonstrations and political activity show that people are becoming more assertive, and the government is using stricter forms when addressing related events. It is concluded that effective mitigating measures are needed to avoid further polarization of American society and the utilization of more radical forms of demonstrations.
Personally, I think the present source is doing a good job of supporting the provided arguments as they use current data from credible sources such as reputable newspaper articles. The authors consider the links between social and political activism and the economic situation in the country, as well as COVID-related measures. The authors provide graphs, which makes the information easy to understand.
I believe this source will be helpful in supporting my argument because it provides insights into the most recent trends regarding the number of people participating in demonstrations, demographics, measures undertaken by the authorities.
Gale Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection
This source is using evidence to support the following argument: people have the right to peaceful assembly, while the authorities have the right to react accordingly to maintain order and prevent violence. It is also stressed that the media tend to highlight and even concentrate on sensationalized moments and aspects of the activity and can have an impact on the development of demonstration activity.
Personally, I think this source is doing a good job of supporting its arguments since the authors refer to relevant cases (court cases, events that led to considerable consequences). The source deals with the current demonstrations and violent acts that were triggered by the murder of George Floyd.
I assume the present source will be helpful in supporting my argument because it sheds light on specific events and cases that have had a significant influence on demonstration activity during recent years. The authors also deal with several cases similar to the one of Floyd and analyze some responses of the authorities.
The persistent effect of US civil rights protests on political attitudes
It seems this source is arguing that the current demonstration activity and the overall attitude towards its aims and means are deeply rooted in the civil rights movement. The author also emphasizes that certain events (especially such major ones as wars) also influence social and political activism. It is stated that the civil rights movement, as well as more recent demonstration activity, is gradually changing US society, making it more democratic. The latest presidential elections also show this shift to further democratization.
Personally, I think the source is doing a very good job of supporting its arguments because the author considers relevant events and movements, referring to reliable sources and credible studies. The author also provides a substantial bulk of data supporting its arguments concerning people’s involvement in social and political activism.
I deem this source will be valuable in supporting my arguments because it sheds light on the underpinnings of the current events and people’s perspectives concerning such issues as racial and social equality. The author develops a theoretical framework that can guide my study, making it more focused.
References
ACLED. (2020). Demonstrations & political violence in America: New data for summer 2020. Web.
Freedom of Assembly. (2020). Gale Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection. Web.
Mazumder, S. (2018). The persistent effect of US civil rights protests on political attitudes. American Journal of Political Science, 62(4), 922-935.