Paganism Quote by Christopher Scott Thompson
““Some modern Pagans claim to be staunchly apolitical, seeing radical Paganism as a highly unwelcome trend that corrupts religion by mixing it with politics. Political neutrality is conservative by default. When the entire world is under threat from industrial capitalism, what does it mean for a Pagan to be apolitical? It can only mean that you will allow mountains be blown apart for coal, forests to be clear-cut, rivers to be poisoned, and the Earth to be overheated until it becomes unlivable. From the perspective of animism, that can only mean that you are no friend to the spirits but a collaborator with those who would destroy them and leave us all with a dead world. Pagan anarchists don't make rules for other people. No one is saying that a Pagan is "not allowed" to be a supporter of capitalism. You're always allowed to do whatever you choose- but that doesn't mean it makes sense. You can be an "apolitical Pagan" if you want, but the consequence of your apolitical position will be the death of everything you claim to worship.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Modern Paganism and Politics, 2023
Being apolitical in a crisis means tacitly supporting harmful systems, betraying spiritual values and the Earth.
In simple terms: Apolitical stance aids oppression.
Choose active stewardship over passive neutrality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- environmental activism
- community organizing
- spiritual practice
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does silence affect the world you cherish?
- What actions align your spirituality with ecological care?
Apoliticalism can be seen as a form of passive complicity, limiting impact.