When I think about gradualism, I do think about civil rights and domestic policy. As it pertains to civil rights, there have been positive changes, like the greater acceptance of our gay brothers and sisters and more awareness about how Black folks are more impacted by racism, classism, and police brutality. At the same time, many people died in the fight for equality. Also, as in the past, the people sounding the alarms against modern-day oppression are never popular. It takes years of messaging, activism, and first-hand experience for people to change their views for the better.

A change in policies may be met with resistance, but these policies are sometimes more effective than other methods when enforced properly and quickly put into place. But gradual changes give people an excuse to cling to their prejudices and bad habits. These changes can also be easily undone and lead to more damage. For instance, some domestic issues, like the U.S. health care system, shouldn’t be addressed with small, gradual changes, but may need a full overhaul. People are dying for lack of health insurance and that should concern us all. Some worldwide issues, like climate catastrophe, should be addressed now and with drastic changes to help us avoid the worst effects.