Skip to content

Active Quote by Susan Sontag

“There is an understandable vindictiveness in people who come from Communist countries. They want to keep telling us that we were fools to think that we could make radical changes in our society. Though I understand their dismay, respect their suffering and don't understand the gullibility of some…” quote by Susan Sontag
Download Open image
“There is an understandable vindictiveness in people who come from Communist countries. They want to keep telling us that we were fools to think that we could make radical changes in our society. Though I understand their dismay, respect their suffering and don't understand the gullibility of some people who don't take in how repressive these societies are, I still think it's important to keep people of all kinds as active in civic matters as possible.”

Susan Sontag

About This Quote

People from former communist regimes often feel betrayed when radical change is promised, yet many ignore systemic oppression.

In simple terms: Disillusionment arises from false promises.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address systemic oppression.

Themes

politics history disillusionment

Mood

critical hopeful

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy reform
  • public education
  • activism
  • media literacy

Key Concepts

authoritarian legacy civic engagement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies rebuild trust?
  • What role does education play in civic participation?
A Different Perspective

Overcoming cynicism requires nuanced dialogue.

4.0 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Susan Sontag

Explore all 644 Susan Sontag quotes

More Active quotes

Browse all 2,212 Active quotes