It is the doctrine of the oligarchy that there is nothing…
“It is the doctrine of the oligarchy that there is nothing that we hold in common, that the commonwealth is a myth, that it is even a sign of softheadedness and weakness. The oligarchical power feeds on the sense that we are all individuals, struggling on our own, and ennobled by the effort.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Oligarchs claim shared resources are myths, promoting individualism and glorifying personal struggle, while actually relying on that belief to maintain power.
In simple terms: They deny common good to keep power, pretending everyone is alone.
Key Takeaway
Challenge the myth of individualism.
Themes
politics
power
individualism
social theory
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- community organizing
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
elite control
commonwealth
social cohesion
Questions to Reflect On
- How does individualism affect community strength?
- What evidence shows shared resources benefit all?
A Different Perspective
Ignoring genuine cooperation can weaken solidarity.