Domestic Terrorism In The United States

Domestic Terrorism in the United States:

Left Wing versus Right Wing Extremist

Abstract

Throughout this paper a comparison will be made between left wing extremist and right wing extremist in the United States. While the United States form of government affords its citizens certain freedoms, liberties and protections, it is clear that some groups are not satisfied with the government's framework or processes. Understanding the differences and similarities between these two distinct groups will provide some insight of their influence and involvement in acts of domestic terrorism in the United States. It will become clear that the differences and similarities are far more deeply rooted than the obvious in that the left-views are opposite to the right-wing views. The methods utilized by left are synonymous with such words as rebellion, revolt, rioting and revolution which would imply that they are not open to interference by the U.S. government. Unfortunately, left wing extremist and right wing extremist opposing views continue to present concerns and challenges for the U.S. government as it relates to domestic terrorism. This paper will support my position regarding the need for continued monitoring of left and right wing individuals, affiliates or groups to prevent, disrupt and dismantle those groups (i.e. hate or anti-government groups, etc.) who resort to acts of violence to achieve their goals within the United States.

The United States democratic government has been recognized and applauded for its form of democratic government by many countries across the globe. One of the many benefits that appeal to other person from other countries and even American citizens include, but is not limited to guarantees, protections and liberties afforded to all Americans by the U.S. Constitution-Bill of Rights. However, the protections afforded to all American citizens doesn't come without a cost as there are left-wing and right-wing extremist who exploit or abuse these rights and resort to acts of terrorism in order to achieve their goals. Article I of the U.S. Constitution-Bill of Rights (Freedom of Speech, Press, Religion, and Petition) which provides clear direction to the U.S. Congress regarding these issues. Article I ensures that that the U.S. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances (Cole & Smith, 2010). Article I and any other form of government imposed laws that prevent or provide obstacles for left-wing and right-wing extremist are often ignored and in many instances have resulted in acts of terrorism involving violence.

Left-wing ideologies can be interpreted as reformist in nature, involve forward looking, aim to support those who cannot support themselves, are idealist and believe in equality. People who are left wing believe in taxation to redistribute opportunity and wealth (i.e. national health services, unemployment wages, etc.) are left wing ideas (Martin, 2011). Left-wing members are supporters of equality over the freedom to fail. Some of the left-wing extremists groups identified within the United States include

In respect to right-wing ideology involve valuing tradition. Right-wing members are about equity, survival of the fittest, and they believe in economic freedom. They normally believe that business