Opium Quote by Simone Weil
“It is not religion but revolution which is the opium of the people.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Need for Roots, Simone Weil, 1943
Revolution, not religion, serves as the people’s opium, numbing them to oppression.
In simple terms: Revolution numbs people like opium.
Recognize true sources of oppression.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- activism
- political movements
- social critique
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does revolution become a new opium?
- What alternatives exist to both religion and revolution?
Revolution can also bring new forms of control.