Arab Quote by Albert Memmi
““The colonialist's existence is so closely aligned with that of the colonized that he will never be able to overcome the argument which states that misfortune is good for something. With all his power he must disown the colonized while their existence is indispensable to his own. Having chosen to maintain the colonial system, he must contribute more vigor to its defense than would have been needed to dissolve it completely. Having become aware of the unjust relationship which ties him to the colonized, he must continually attempt to absolve himself. He never forgets to make a public show of his own virtues, and will argue with vehemence to appear heroic and great. At the same time his privileges arise just as much from his glory as from degrading the colonized.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Colonizer and the Colonized by Albert Memmi, 1957
Colonial power depends on the colonized, leading to a paradox where the colonizer must both dominate and justify his authority, creating moral contradictions.
In simple terms: Colonialism creates a dependent relationship that forces the colonizer to defend his power.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge the moral contradictions of domination.
Themes
colonialism
power
dependency
identity
morality
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
theory
observation
When to use this quote
- academic analysis
- political discourse
- social justice movements
Key Concepts
dependence
self‑justification
privilege
Questions to Reflect On
- How does dependency shape colonial authority?
- What are the ethical implications of defending oppressive systems?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex historical dynamics.
