Built Quote by Steven Pinker
“I think that communism was a major force for violence for more than 100 years, because it was built into its ideology - that progress comes through class struggle, often violent.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature, 2011
Communism’s doctrine of violent class struggle has historically fueled conflict over a century.
In simple terms: Communist ideas linked to violence.
Recognize ideology’s impact on violence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- academic research
- public debate
- education
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does ideology shape conflict?
- Can non‑violent reforms achieve similar goals?
Ideological motives are not the sole cause of violence; economic and social factors also matter.