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I recall coming across a line by the late Charles Tilly…

“I recall coming across a line by the late Charles Tilly when he said, "The conditions for the possibility of social movements have been called into question in the twenty-first century." And I said to myself, my god, a society in history without social movements, for me, is very difficult to live…” quote by Cornel West
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“I recall coming across a line by the late Charles Tilly when he said, "The conditions for the possibility of social movements have been called into question in the twenty-first century." And I said to myself, my god, a society in history without social movements, for me, is very difficult to live in.”

Cornel West

About This Quote

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

Social movements are essential for societal vitality; questioning their existence reveals a crisis.

In simple terms: Movements matter; their loss is alarming.

Key Takeaway

Support and study social movements.

Themes

society activism history movement theory crisis

Mood

reflective critical

Type

sociological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • civil rights protests
  • grassroots organizing
  • digital activism

Key Concepts

collective action social change historical continuity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What sustains movements in modern times?
  • How can we protect movement spaces?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on movements may ignore structural reforms.

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