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Comment by jimbokun | Hacker News Reader

My one vacation to Paris I was very concerned about the protests/near riots, things being set on fire, and garbage piled high because of strikes I saw on television.

But we ended up having a great time. Got used to the piles of garbage, and the fires and protests were scheduled in advance so easily avoided. And I gained an appreciation for the willingness of French workers to stand up for themselves.

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> appreciation for the willingness of French workers to stand up for themselves

I wonder if you still have that view when your car is one of the hundreds that typically get set on fire during protests.

Rioting and the government caving for a minority out of fear of violence is the most undemocratic possible and does not fit in 21th century society. I’m happy to grow up north of France where minorities don’t torch the town when the democratically appointed representatives decide on something they don’t like.

You forgot the part where the French government (who doesn't control their currency) is going bankrupt. Some simple reforms would fix this problem but when they are considered, the crazies start burning down Paris. Its actually amazingly sad to watch.

Correct. It is sad when the government is unable to execute a solid financial recovery plan out of fear of a violent minority.

Rioting is undemocratic…

Yeah, I guess we ARE hard-working sheep and get what we deserve…

Yes, it is? When the majority wants something different than you, forcing the government to your will by violence, is not a very democratic process.

You have a deep misunderstanding of American civil unrest.

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