"Non-violence/Peace/Anti-War"

[Faux Real]

How and why did these forms of protest gain favour above violence or revolution, among the general public?

[La Comédie Noire]

I think the general public has a respect for the state and it's officers. Also your average citizen does not wish to break the law or serve time in prison. Some may have fear of a possibly violent end to their life.

Also non violent protest is a great way to make the police look bad.

Why do you ask?

[KC]

I'm not sure what you mean. Historically, violent forms of protest have been vastly more popular than non-violent means. However, non-violent protest is a useful tactic in appropriate situations. Note, however, that non-violent protest is a tactic, and is completely different than pacifism, which is an ideology.

[Faux Real]

Yeah, I mean this question in terms of the people demanding change, and if not getting it by overthrowing the state.

[Schrödinger's Cat]

Speaking on behalf of only myself, preaching peace and non-violence has nothing to do with relations with the people to their states but between the states. Of course states in themselves are dangerous institutions...