Skip to content

With subjectivity in philosophy, anarchism in politics…

“With subjectivity in philosophy, anarchism in politics goes hand in hand. Already during Luther's lifetime, unwelcome and unacknowledged disciples had developed the doctrine of Anabaptism, which for a time dominated the city of Munster. The Anabaptists repudiated all law since they held that good…” quote by Bertrand Russell
Download Open image
“With subjectivity in philosophy, anarchism in politics goes hand in hand. Already during Luther's lifetime, unwelcome and unacknowledged disciples had developed the doctrine of Anabaptism, which for a time dominated the city of Munster. The Anabaptists repudiated all law since they held that good men will be guided at every moment by the Holy Spirit, who can not be bound by formulas. From this premise they arrive at communism and sexual promiscuity; they were therefore exterminated after a heroic resistance.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote links philosophical subjectivity with anarchist politics, citing Anabaptist rejection of law and resulting radical communal practices, which led to violent suppression.

In simple terms: Anarchist ideas arise from subjective belief, leading to radical communal actions that can provoke harsh backlash.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how ideas can inspire extreme social experiments.

Themes

philosophy politics religion history social movements

Mood

critical reflective historical

Type

analytical historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • political activism
  • religious reform
  • social organization
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

subjectivity anarchism communalism authority rejection radicalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What conditions allow radical ideas to survive?
  • How does authority react to perceived lawlessness?
A Different Perspective

Such movements often face violent opposition and may not sustain long‑term stability.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Bertrand Russell

Explore all 1,620 Bertrand Russell quotes

More Anabaptism quotes

Browse all 5 Anabaptism quotes