Vigilantism: meaning, definitions and examples
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vigilantism
[ ˌvɪdʒɪˈlæntɪzəm ]
social movement
Vigilantism refers to the act of individuals or groups taking the law into their own hands, often in response to perceived inadequacies in the legal or justice system. This can manifest in various forms, including private individuals or organizations actively seeking to enforce laws or punish offenders without state authority, which can lead to chaotic and potentially violent scenarios.
Synonyms
extralegal action, mob justice, self-defense, self-justice.
Examples of usage
- Vigilantism can lead to a breakdown of social order.
- Communities sometimes resort to vigilantism when they feel unprotected.
- The rise of vigilantism has sparked debates about justice and legality.
Translations
Translations of the word "vigilantism" in other languages:
🇵🇹 vigilantismo
🇮🇳 न्याय स्वयं करना
🇩🇪 Vigilantismus
🇮🇩 vigilantisme
🇺🇦 військове самосуддя
🇵🇱 wigilantyzm
🇯🇵 自警団活動
🇫🇷 vigilantisme
🇪🇸 vigilantismo
🇹🇷 vigilantizm
🇰🇷 자경단 활동
🇸🇦 العدالة الذاتية
🇨🇿 vigilantismus
🇸🇰 vigilantizmus
🇨🇳 自卫行动
🇸🇮 vigilantizem
🇮🇸 vigilantismi
🇰🇿 вигигантизм
🇬🇪 ვიგილანტიზმი
🇦🇿 vigilantizm
🇲🇽 vigilantismo
Etymology
The word 'vigilantism' is derived from the Latin word 'vigilans', meaning 'watchful', which is a form of the verb 'vigilare', meaning 'to watch'. The concept began to take shape in the United States in the 19th century when groups of volunteers stepped in to maintain order in lawless territories where local law enforcement was either ineffectual or corrupt. These vigilant groups were often formed in response to crime waves, and while they intended to restore order and protect communities, their actions were sometimes brutal and could lead to the violation of civil rights. The term has since evolved to encompass various forms of extrajudicial law enforcement, reflecting growing concerns over legal authority and social accountability. The practice raises significant moral and ethical questions about justice, legality, and the role of state power.