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Anarchists know that a long period of education must…

“Anarchists know that a long period of education must precede any great fundamental change in society, hence they do not believe in vote begging, nor political campaigns, but rather in the development of self-thinking individuals. We look away from government for relief, because we know that force…” quote by Lucy Parsons
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“Anarchists know that a long period of education must precede any great fundamental change in society, hence they do not believe in vote begging, nor political campaigns, but rather in the development of self-thinking individuals. We look away from government for relief, because we know that force (legalized) invades the personal liberty of man, seizes upon the natural elements and intervenes between man and natural laws; from this exercise of force through governments flows nearly all the misery, poverty, crime and confusion existing in society.”

Lucy Parsons

About This Quote

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

Fundamental societal change requires educated, independent thinkers rather than reliance on voting or political campaigns; coercive government creates widespread suffering.

In simple terms: Education and self-reliance precede true change; government force causes misery.

Key Takeaway

Promote critical thinking and self-education.

Themes

anarchism education government critique

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

philosophical activist

When to use this quote

  • activism
  • community building
  • policy critique

Key Concepts

self-reliance political theory social reform

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role should voting play in change?
  • How can self-education be fostered at scale?
A Different Perspective

May overlook practical benefits of democratic participation.

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