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With the conception that the Revolution was only a means…

“With the conception that the Revolution was only a means of securing political power, it was inevitable that all revolutionary values should be subordinated to the needs of the Socialist State; indeed, exploited to further the security of the newly acquired governmental power.” quote by Emma Goldman
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“With the conception that the Revolution was only a means of securing political power, it was inevitable that all revolutionary values should be subordinated to the needs of the Socialist State; indeed, exploited to further the security of the newly acquired governmental power.”

Emma Goldman

About This Quote

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

Revolutionary ideals become tools for state power, sacrificing original values to maintain authority.

In simple terms: Revolution can be co‑opted by power.

Key Takeaway

Guard revolutionary goals from political capture.

Themes

politics revolution power dynamics

Mood

critical analytical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • social movements
  • policy reforms
  • activist strategies
  • government reforms

Key Concepts

ideology statecraft corruption

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can movements stay true to their founding principles?
  • What mechanisms prevent state co‑option?
A Different Perspective

Power can corrupt even noble intentions.

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