Perception of violence in school blockades

Writer Henri Quantin examines how society views violence in school blockades, arguing that while various forms of violence are often exposed, the symbolic and psychological aspects of such actions are frequently overlooked.

Symbolic violence in education

Quantin notes the irony that students are often taught to be aware of verbal and symbolic violence, yet there is a common assumption that any school action without physical harm or destruction of property is non-violent. He references tools like the "Discriminomètre" developed by institutions such as the University of Lyon 1 and the city of Clermont-Ferrand, which classify different types of violence, including sexism, racism, and gynecological violence, on various scales.

Blockades as real violence

Quantin challenges the consistency of those who promote non-violence while participating in school blockades that prevent others from accessing educational services. He argues that even without physical violence, blocking access to a school can be a form of real violence, as it involves an undue claim of passage over others.

Intimidation as symbolic violence

He references the work of sociologist Pierre Bourdieu, who viewed intimidation as a form of symbolic violence, even when it does not involve overt acts of intimidation. This perspective is used to highlight the hidden layers of violence in student demonstrations.

Verbal violence in protests

Quantin criticizes the lack of recognition of symbolic violence in student protests, suggesting that slogans and the nature of the protests themselves may involve forms of verbal violence. He calls for a reevaluation of the actions of students blocking schools and the need to consider obstruction as a legal offense in such cases.