Building Quote by Howard Zinn
“There is the past and its continuing horrors: violence, war, prejudices against those who are different, outrageous monopolization of the good earth's wealth by a few, political power in the hands of liars and murderers, the building of prisons instead of schools, the poisoning of the press and the entire culture by money. It is easy to become discouraged observing this, especially since this is what the press and television insist that we look at, and nothing more.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A People's History of the United States, 1980
The quote highlights systemic injustices—war, prejudice, wealth concentration, corrupt power, and media manipulation—that foster despair.
In simple terms: Systemic injustice causes despair.
Recognize and act against oppression.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- activism
- journalism
- education
- policy reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What can individuals do to counter systemic oppression?
- How can media be held accountable?
Addressing one issue alone cannot solve the whole system.