> Violence needs to--has to--be met with equal or greater force to show the thugs who is boss--in this case the legally-appointed police and justice system.
This is a flawed and historically ignorant premise, presented with no justification.
No, what I mean is that when you say violence "needs to" and "has to" be met with equal or greater violence, you are just incorrect, from a historical standpoint. One of the great innovations of civilization was non-violent responses to violence, which usually prove to be more effective and lasting solutions.
I think what you mean is that, in your opinion, violence should be met with equal or greater violence, for the reasons you've given. I don't agree with you, but you're entitled to that opinion. But it just isn't accurate to say that it needs to be handled in the way you think it should be.
This is a flawed and historically ignorant premise, presented with no justification.