Authoritarianism Quote by Leon Trotsky
““Terror is a powerful means of policy and one would have to be a hypocrite not to understand this.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political Treatise, Leon Trotsky, 1917
Terror is an effective political tool, but acknowledging it reveals moral compromise.
In simple terms: Terror works but is morally troubling.
Key Takeaway
Question the use of fear in politics.
Themes
politics
morality
power
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- revolutionary movements
- authoritarian regimes
- policy debates
Key Concepts
Ethical paradox
statecraft
Questions to Reflect On
- Is terror ever justified for political ends?
- How does fear shape public consent?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on terror can erode legitimacy.
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![“[Joseph] Stalin closes the exposition of these [Leon Trotsky] ideas with the words, "Such are in general the characteristic features of [Vladimir] Lenin's conception of the proletarian revolution."” quote by Leon Trotsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/240/leon-trotsky-2558_characteristics_joseph-stalin-closes-the-exposition-of-t_33931.jpg)
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