Anachronism Quote by Arthur Koestler
“The greatest temptation for the like of us is: to renounce violence, to repent, to make peace with oneself. Most revolutionaries fell before this temptation, from Spartacus to Danton and Dostoevsky; they are the classical form of betrayal of the cause. The temptations of God were always more dangerous for mankind than those of Satan. As long as chaos dominates the world, God is an anachronism; and every compromise with one’s own conscience is perfidy. When the accursed inner voice speaks to you, hold your hands over your ears….”
About This Quote
The quote warns that abandoning violent struggle for personal peace is a betrayal of revolutionary ideals, arguing that inner compromise undermines true commitment to change.
In simple terms: Renouncing violence for personal peace is betrayal.
Key Takeaway
Compromise with conscience = betrayal of cause.
Themes
Revolution
Betrayal
Violence
Conscience
Moral Dilemma
Idealism
Mood
defiant
somber
urgent
Type
political
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- Political activism
- Underground resistance
- Moral crisis
- Personal transformation
- Leadership decisions
Key Concepts
Revolutionary Commitment
Inner Conflict
Moral Integrity
Political Ideology
Practical Applications
- Motivating steadfast activism
- Guiding ethical decision‑making in movements
Questions to Reflect On
- What does true commitment demand in the face of personal doubt?
- How can one reconcile inner peace with external struggle?
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