This study focuses primarily on the nature of 'direct action' in relation to contemporary movements, and considers the role of direct action methods in past campaigns for constitutional and social rights. Boycotts, sit-ins, obstructions, civil disobedience and other unconstitutional forms of protest are examined to see whether they necessarily lead to violence. The political conditions which encourage violence and the effects of various type of violent action are also discussed.

This text considers attitudes towards peace and resistance to war, from pre-1945 to 1990. It looks at the opposition to nuclear weapons and testing, the spread of the peace protest, opposition to all forms of militarism, protest against war in Vietnam and more recently the Gulf.