Benefits Quote by Thomas Pogge
“One citizen, or a few, may be powerless if all the rest are determined to benefit from the imposition of unjust supranational rules. But this excuse cannot work for large numbers. Just imagine 10 million US citizens saying in unison: "I am just one powerless citizen. There is nothing I can do to change my government's policies!"”
About This Quote
Source Book: World Poverty and Human Rights, Thomas Pogge, 2002
Mass movements can overcome perceived powerlessness when many act together, challenging unjust global rules.
In simple terms: Collective action can counteract feeling powerless.
Organize and speak as a unified group.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- protests
- policy advocacy
- grassroots campaigns
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals sustain momentum in large movements?
- What safeguards prevent majority tyranny?
Large numbers may still face systemic barriers and repression.