Is it healthy to protest?

I'm just a little concerned about what is happening in NYC, and would like some open discussion about the pros and cons. I've read a couple of the blogs here about it. I also have taken a sociology class, we all watched a video about something similar that happened outside of a major corporation in.. I think Seattle.

My major concern is violence, or hate in general. In terms of "health" I'm referring to the psyche of the society that has protest occurring within it. I think back to the spring and summer with Egypt, and the protests there, that started protests in neighboring countries, eventually breaking out in civil war.

In less developed societies, where tyranny reigns over people who are denied rights, war sometimes may seem like a better option. Of course, as we develop both our societies and our understanding of each other, we hope that war will never be on the table for us to consider.

Yet it seems that once in action, violence seems to escalate. "Violence" I'm taking to mean behavior that instigates aggression. It is sad to see citizens handcuffed to the ground. In my mind, these brothers/sisters/mothers/fathers are involving themselves in a violent act. I tend to walk away from violent acts or aggression that I see stirring.

I understand we all want to make a positive impact, and can clearly see unnecessary lines of division and want to make a difference. But I think we get caught up in asking ourselves, "What should I/We do about it?" Protesting seems to be a go-to option. It will raise awareness, and that is the most important thing. And when it gets ugly, maybe we feel good about being a martyr for whatever psychological basis for how pain pays off. But doesn't that seem as archaic as war itself?

...To raise awareness against the atrocities.

I have a feeling everyone's aware there are a myriad number of atrocities in our current way of doing things.. a lot of people don't care because it doesn't effect them, or worse they're in control and if they do the right thing, then it compromises their individual wealth/power.

One question in terms of this most recent protest. Why @ wall street?

I think the healthiest way to make a difference is to change systems from the inside out. Or at least support those "good guys" who are on the inside. They're around I trust. I like this method because it's more homogeneous, less of a polarization between the people. And that's peaceful.

I'm just concerned.
But I'm also naive, so enlighten me if you will.. further on the subject.