Those are "Luddite" not "leftist" sentiments. The 'leftists' and anti-technology people have very little overlap. In fact most classical 'leftist' movements embraced technology and industry (that was what the "hammer" in the Soviet "hammer and sickle" stood for).
Time and political philosphy doesn't stand still. Definitions of left and right change with each generation as the political landscape changes. Complaining about this is like complaining about the sun rising and setting. A "classic" nazi has very little in common philosophically with Glen Beck, yet they're both considered right wing if you look at the roots of their political thinking. Is that comparison useful in a practical discussion?
Yet if you that two groups share the same philosophies political goals (perhaps they have different methods of achieving those goals or the extent to which they are to be taken), it can be said that the two groups are related to one another.
For instance, ELF strongly advocates environmental sensitivity, sustainable development, pervasive legislation regarding the treatment of animals, etc. are all shared value with many on the left. Certainly there would be profound disagreement with these groups regarding the methods ELF imposes, and the extent to which these regulations should go, but there are many share values to be sure. Along the same vein, neo-nazi's share some values (e.g. limited government and states rights) and could be placed on the same political spectrum together.
PETA? "Dogs of the world Unite!" [wikipedia.org] ... err, what?
PETA has funded ELF directly and prominent ELF members who condone violence. I suppose PETA isn't a left wing organization either?
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Actually, no. Look at the dates of the crimes.
The crimes listed are from the 70's all the way to this decade. I suppose you're excluding ALF / ELF and that's how you get to a dated figure.
My thesis was not that the 'left' is not involved in violence or that there is no terrorism from the 'left' historically or that it cannot be so again
I've never claimed anything to the contrary either. We're in complete agreement here. Furthermore, I would agree with you that there are many right wing groups and individuals involved in terrorist activities.
only that presently the 'right' dominates at both the violent rhetoric and actual acts of violence.
And I'm still waiting for evidence regarding "near daily" events involving rampaging rednecks. You were exaggerating for effect seemingly.
And no, Eco-terrorists and the 'left' are not one and the same.
Environmentalism is a left leaning movement which has some radical aspects. I'm not sure how much clearer that could possibly be.
If you want to disown ELF and ALF from your list, then you'll need to take McVeigh off the 'right wing' tally since his neo-nazi dogma has little to do with the US' right wing political landscape of today.
Finally, you are moving the goal posts big time. First you say that most ecoterrorists are anarchists. Then, when confronted with information to contrary, you assert they're luddites and not connected with the left.
I noticed you didn't mention the New Black Panthers trial. I don't know if that was an oversight on your part, or if you are ceding the point?