The main difference between far-left and far-right extremism lies in their methods and motivations. Far-left extremism has had motivations based upon factors such as environmental change and progress, social justice, and progression in a system where prejudice is active. While not historically violent, far-left extremism has become violent in the past. During the 60’s and 70’s, groups became violent at changes regarding social justice and policies in the United States. Groups such as the Weather Underground are examples of such practices. On the other end of the spectrum, far-right extremists have had a violent past and maintain a violent present practice based on motivations relating to conservation of old practices, racism, and conspiracy. Far-right extremism has its roots in the United States going as far back as the foundation of the KKK, a group notorious for its racist motivations and violent practices. In modern times, the motivation has slightly shifted to racism based on conspiracies and biased opinions rather than in the 1800’s where it was out of seeing former slaves free. The violent practices, while reducing in quantity, have increased in magnitude. Far-right extremists in modern times have transformed into a method of radicalization of the masses, where every so often, an individual who has been radicalized will be ready or willing to act out these ideologies, oftentimes affecting many people in the attacks they carry out.
The difference between far-left and far-right violence is night and day. Left violence has historically targeted property damage and caused disruption, although violence may happen to individuals opposing the act. Right violence has historically targeted individuals to cause damage to society.