Dissent and revolution have always been a pivotal part of human history. Peaceful and belligerent resistance has changed laws, ousted governments and even birthed countries. Even in the 21^st century, and especially now, protest plays a powerful role in politics. These protests often take the shape of marches and sit-ins, but others turn to violent riots and aggressive clashes.

There is a hotly debated topic on which is more effective, as was highlighted during the 60’s with Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcom X taking to the streets with similar ends, but opposing means. However, regardless of which works better, one concept must stand at the epicenter of a movement: know what you are fighting for or rebelling against. If you wish to break the rules, you must first know them.

A movement without purpose is nothing. To light fires in the streets because something didn’t go your way is not enough. In a similar way, the simple act of standing before the White House holding picket signs with clever insults means nothing. You cannot stand behind something if you don’t really know what that something is. Actions must have purpose to bring about change.

One shouldn’t rebel for the sake of opposition, one should rebel for the sake of change. A true protest should identify the problem, which is the trigger for social defiance. This aspect is almost always considered since it is the source of a reaction. However, it is not enough to realize it exists, it is also necessary to dissect it, and identify what parts, if not the whole, you disagree with. Where some fail to follow through is the intention.

Breaking the law, in all intents and purposes, is nothing more than a crime if not done with reason. However, breaking the law, acknowledging what it represents, and knowing a way in which it can be improved has social merit. One must always know how something can be better, even if the improvement is subjective. This, evidently, will not alleviate backlash and will not deter differences of opinion. However, it is much easier and much more convincing to fight for your belief if it is well-thought-out and plausible.

In art, literature, and music, there is a fine line between incompetence and strategic rule-breaking. If Picasso used cubism just because he had no idea how to paint realistic portraits, then he would surely not be as highly regarded as he is today. There is inspiration behind his work -- there is drive and reason. Why we do something is as equally, if not more, important as it is to actually do it. When a reporter confronts you and inquires about your movement, purpose, and reasoning, you must be ready and able to answer any and all of their questions. That is the true measure of rebellion.