In the last 12 months, three of the worst mass attacks on Americans have come from Americans who were right wing extremists. Additionally, the the most destructive act of terrorism in the United States other than 9-11, was the Oklahoma City Bombing, which was also perpetrated by a white, right-wing extremist.
Not more than a year ago this week, there was the Sikh Temple shooting in Wisconsin which was committed by a white supremacist. The Newtown Shooting in Connecticut was committed by a right wing sympathiser who wanted to emulate Anders Brevik in Norway. Family and friends reported him to be a right wing survivalist like his mother. Most recently, the Boston Bombing appears to have been committed by two lone wolves who appear to be more influenced by the right wing conspiracy theories and white supremacist ideal than Islam.
The Far right presents a three part problem: a fearful mindset that embraces conspiracy theories, a willingness to commit violence without a factual basis justifying it, and obsession with accumulating weapons combined with paramilitary organisations.
The right needs to repudiate their extremist fringe, especially the violent segment, and acceptance of violence as a political tactic--the same way William F. Buckley repudiated the John Birch Society. Until then, they have lost credibility and have become just dangerous.
Not more than a year ago this week, there was the Sikh Temple shooting in Wisconsin which was committed by a white supremacist. The Newtown Shooting in Connecticut was committed by a right wing sympathiser who wanted to emulate Anders Brevik in Norway. Family and friends reported him to be a right wing survivalist like his mother. Most recently, the Boston Bombing appears to have been committed by two lone wolves who appear to be more influenced by the right wing conspiracy theories and white supremacist ideal than Islam.
The Far right presents a three part problem: a fearful mindset that embraces conspiracy theories, a willingness to commit violence without a factual basis justifying it, and obsession with accumulating weapons combined with paramilitary organisations.
The right needs to repudiate their extremist fringe, especially the violent segment, and acceptance of violence as a political tactic--the same way William F. Buckley repudiated the John Birch Society. Until then, they have lost credibility and have become just dangerous.
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