There are those, on the one hand, who hope to achieve the…
“There are those, on the one hand, who hope to achieve the social revolution through the State by preserving and even extending most of its powers to be used for the revolution. And there are those like ourselves who see the State, both in its present form, in its very essence, and in whatever guise it might appear, an obstacle to the social revolution, the greatest hindrance to the birth of a society based on equality and liberty, as well as the historic means designed to prevent this blossoming.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The State can be used to enforce revolutionary change, but it also inherently blocks true equality and liberty, acting as a barrier to genuine social transformation.
In simple terms: The State can both help and hinder revolution.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge state power to achieve true equality.
Themes
anarchy
revolution
equality
state power
social change
Mood
critical
determined
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political activism
- community organizing
- grassroots movements
- policy reform
Key Concepts
mutual aid
collectivism
libertarian socialism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we build alternatives to state control?
- What strategies undermine state obstacles to equality?
A Different Perspective
State institutions often resist change and can co-opt revolutionary aims.