Coercion

Duress
Blackmail

Nature

Coercion is the threat or use of force to constrain another agent's freedom of action. Coercion and deception are two major ways to control the actions of others without their fully voluntary cooperation. The justification of coercion is often a major part of the justification of both violent and non-violent resistance.

Incidence

Coercion manifests in various forms across the globe, affecting millions. According to the Global Slavery Index, an estimated 40.3 million people are victims of modern slavery, which often involves coercive tactics. Reports indicate that coercion is prevalent in both state and non-state contexts, with significant occurrences in regions such as Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Africa. The prevalence of coercive practices in labor exploitation, human trafficking, and domestic violence highlights the widespread nature of this issue.
A notable instance of coercion occurred in 2014 in the Philippines, where a government-backed anti-drug campaign led to extrajudicial killings. Reports indicated that law enforcement officials coerced individuals into confessing to drug-related offenses, often under threat of violence. This campaign resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread fear among communities, illustrating the severe implications of coercive practices in state governance.

Claim

Both the state and opposition groups use coercion to achieve political ends. Gandhi used non-violent methods of coercion, a moral force on the British. Systems of law are based on coercion.

Counter-claim

Coercion is often overstated as a significant issue, overshadowed by more pressing societal problems. Most individuals possess the agency to make choices, and the notion of coercion frequently serves as an excuse for personal failures. In a world filled with opportunities, focusing on coercion detracts from empowering individuals to take responsibility for their actions. Instead of fixating on perceived coercion, we should encourage resilience and self-determination, fostering a culture of accountability rather than victimhood.