Dear Ollie,

<<I do not think the "thin edge of the wedge" argument should preclude a nuanced discussion of what restrictions to civil liberty might be justifiable in a variety of situations.>>

Sure, but it cannot just be "I like this restriction, so it's OK, I hate that one, so it's not". I believe that one should adopt a consistent philosophical model for what's acceptable and what's not.

My personal conviction is that while one can be excused for using counter-violence in self-defence, it is not OK to use violence to forward one's dreams and aspirations, be they personal or social.

Yuyutsu,
I agree and I do not think any of my posts have advocated violence.
A broad philosophical position is very important but that still requires a nuanced assessment of what policy is appropriate to a specific situation or like situations.
I had hoped to trigger a broader discussion of what action can be justified in dealing with the current threat posed by supporters of IS living in Australia.
David Kilcullen's "We need a strategic rethink" in the weekend The Australian is interesting reading.