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What is, so to speak, the object of abolition? Not so much…

“What is, so to speak, the object of abolition? Not so much the abolition of prisons but the abolition of a society that could have prisons, that could have slavery, that could have the wage, and therefore not abolition as the elimination of anything but abolition as the founding of a new society.” quote by Fred Moten and Stefano Harney
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““What is, so to speak, the object of abolition? Not so much the abolition of prisons but the abolition of a society that could have prisons, that could have slavery, that could have the wage, and therefore not abolition as the elimination of anything but abolition as the founding of a new society.””

Fred Moten and Stefano Harney

About This Quote

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

Abolition should aim to dismantle the societal structures that enable prisons, slavery, and wage oppression, creating a new equitable society.

In simple terms: Abolition seeks to end systems that allow prisons, slavery, and wage oppression, building a new society.

Key Takeaway

Focus on transforming underlying social structures.

Themes

social justice abolition systemic change equity revolution

Mood

critical determined

Type

theoretical activist

When to use this quote

  • policy advocacy
  • community organizing
  • education on systemic oppression

Key Concepts

critical theory political philosophy social reform

Questions to Reflect On

  • What new societal structures would replace the old?
  • How can individuals contribute to systemic change?
A Different Perspective

Abolition without addressing root causes may be superficial.

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