I have long been skeptical of hashtag activism. Hashtage activism is the usage of social media to promote a cause from the safe distance and filter of anonymity. It’s lazy and ineffective. Protests and demonstrations are a vital part of democracy. They’re a way for people to participate in political decision making beyond the voting booth. Using Twitter and Facebook to make political points is a pale shadow of the real thing.

However, what’s going on in Ferguson is making me a bit nervous. There’s no organization helping to steer people’s passions safely and effectively. The violence and looting isn’t a political statement. It’s just thuggery.