How COVID-19 fuelled the sovereign citizen movement | Four Corners

Key Concepts:

• Pseudo Law: Legal-sounding phrases and arguments with no basis in actual law, often derived from conspiracy theories.
• Techno Term: A term used within pseudo-legal arguments, often misinterpreting or redefining common words for specific purposes.
• Coercive Force of Law: The perception of law as a restrictive power, particularly when it interferes with personal desires or freedoms.
• Sovereign Citizen: A specific group within the pseudo-law movement, believing they are not subject to government laws and regulations.

Rise of Pseudo Law

Dr. Joe McIntyre has been tracking the increase in "pseudo law," which involves using legal-sounding phrases and arguments lacking any real legal foundation. These arguments are frequently rooted in conspiracy theories. An example provided is the statement, "I'm not driving. Driving is a techno term for incommerce. Please provide evidence I'm doing business." This illustrates the redefinition of common terms ("driving") to avoid legal obligations.

Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions

The restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic significantly contributed to the rise of pseudo-law ideology. For many, it was the first time they experienced law as a "coercive force," dictating personal choices like wearing masks or getting vaccinated to maintain employment. This perceived infringement on personal freedoms led to a sense that "law was not always their friend."

Growing Movement and Concerns about Violence

The pseudo-law movement is growing in Australia, and Dr. McIntyre expresses concern that violence will follow. The core issue is the belief that individuals can "pick and choose which laws we obey." This selective obedience can escalate to dangerous behaviors, such as keeping guns illegally or making threats against others. The justification becomes: "Why would I obey those sort of laws?"

Sovereign Citizens

Among the various groups involved in the pseudo-law movement, the "sovereign citizen" is the most widely recognized. These individuals believe they are not subject to government laws and regulations.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The rise of pseudo-law, fueled by perceived overreach during the COVID-19 pandemic, poses a significant threat. The selective interpretation and rejection of laws, particularly within groups like sovereign citizens, can lead to dangerous and potentially violent consequences. Dr. McIntyre's research highlights the urgent need to address this growing ideology and its potential impact on society.