A sociologist has several theories about why some protests have become more violent and extreme across the political spectrum.
Simon Weffer, associate professor of sociology at Northern Illinois University, said growing numbers of people believe the only way they can change society is by disrupting it — sometimes through destruction or violence.
“You don’t seem to be listening when I do it peacefully; maybe you’ll listen now that I’m damaging property and the like,” Weffer said Thursday.
Such feelings can be amplified through social media, either by reinforcing beliefs or spreading misinformation, Weffer said.
He said if social media platforms can't find the right balance between freedom of expression and regulating information that promotes violence, it might require some government regulation.
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