Vigilantism: meaning, definitions and examples

Historical Origins

• The term originated in the 19th century during a time when communities felt they needed to protect themselves from crime due to a lack of law enforcement.
• Vigilante groups often formed in frontier areas of the American West where formal law was absent, aiming to maintain order.
• The first known vigilante committee in America was formed in 1767 in San Jose, California, to address issues of lawlessness.

Pop Culture

• Vigilantism is a common theme in comic books and films, with characters like Batman embodying the concept of fighting crime outside the law.
• Movies like 'Death Wish' and TV shows like 'Dexter' explore the moral dilemmas and consequences of taking justice into one's own hands.
• In literature, works like 'The Punisher' and 'V for Vendetta' highlight vigilantes challenging authority for personal and societal justice.

Psychology

• Vigilantism can stem from a perceived lack of justice in society, prompting individuals to take action when they feel helpless.
• Research shows that people who feel disenfranchised or unsupported by legal systems may turn to vigilantism as a means of empowerment.
• The psychological impacts of vigilantism can include feelings of satisfaction from perceived justice but also guilt or fear of consequences.

Legal Perspectives

• Most legal systems around the world discourage vigilantism, as it can lead to chaos and undermine the rule of law.
• Some regions, however, have historically tolerated forms of vigilantism as a response to chronic issues with crime and inadequate police presence.
• The distinction between vigilantism and lawful self-defense can be complex, often debated in courts and legal literature.

Social Movements

• In some instances, groups have formed to combat social injustices, such as racial discrimination or corruption, through vigilantism.
• Vigilante justice can be both hailed as heroic or condemned as dangerous depending on the context and outcomes.
• Cultural attitudes toward vigilantism vary widely, with some societies viewing it as a necessary evil while others see it as a breakdown of order.