Affordable Quote by Joshua Clover
“People who oppose violence often defend strikes, forgetting that strikes are historically every bit as violent as riots. They recast history so that strikes were always this ascetic refusal rather than open warfare with private or national military forces, where many, many people died so as to have some possibility of a decent work life, affordable housing, protections - the most practical goals we can imagine.”
About This Quote
Strikes can be as violent as riots, yet history often portrays them as peaceful.
In simple terms: Strikes can be violent.
Recognize the complexity of labor conflicts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- union negotiations
- policy debates
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does framing affect public perception?
- What are the ethical implications of violent protest?
Simplifying history can obscure truth.