However, the coalition's application of force against Iraq was generally considered to be a legitimate use of force, as it was designed to reverse and punish what was seen as, essentially, a criminal act. Force need not involve physical violence. People can simply do something unpleasant or embarrassing if they don't get their way. Parents can take away a child's privileges if that child misbehaves. Labor unions can picket businesses that they believe are treating their employees unfairly.
Consumer groups publicize unsafe products.
People can also be compelled to change their behavior through the civil court system. If their suit is successful they will receive a court judgment which forces the offending party to correct the situation. Although not often thought of in this way, elections are actually another form of force through which the power of the people is brought to bear on governments. In all of these cases, people are being forced to do something they would otherwise not do. As suggested above, force can take many forms.