Again I will say:
“Now boys, stop fighting right now. I mean it.”—
June Cleaver.
My wife used to say that to our two girls. It went in one ear and out the other. Barking out a command without any teeth only teaches a kid they can get by with anything they want. And they will keep pushing until a limit is found.
Adults are no different. Criminals, politicians and political activists in particular. (the latter three are but the same)