Fascism Quote by Walter Benjamin
““The tradition of the oppressed teaches us that the “emergency situation” in which we live is the rule. We must arrive at a concept of history which corresponds to this. Then it will become clear that the task before us is the introduction of a real state of emergency; and our position in the struggle against Fascism will thereby improve. Not the least reason that the latter has a chance is that its opponents, in the name of progress, greet it as a historical norm. – The astonishment that the things we are experiencing in the 20th century are “still” possible is by no means philosophical. It is not the beginning of knowledge, unless it would be the knowledge that the conception of history on which it rests is untenable.””
About This Quote
Source Book: One Hundred Years of Solitude, 1967 (essay collection)
Benjamin argues that modern society lives under a constant state of emergency, and true historical understanding requires recognizing this as a deliberate, transformative condition to
In simple terms: We live in constant crisis; recognizing it can change resistance against oppression.
Key Takeaway
Recognize systemic crises as opportunities for radical change.
Themes
politics
history
resistance
emergency
critical theory
Mood
urgent
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activist organizing
- policy reform
- educational curricula
- media critique
Key Concepts
state of emergency
historical materialism
fascism
progress narrative
Questions to Reflect On
- How does framing everyday life as emergency affect agency?
- Can we find constructive action within perpetual crisis?
A Different Perspective
The concept may overlook moments of stability and hope.
![“Neither Italian fascism nor German national "socialism" have anything in common with such a [Soviet socialistic] society, primarily because private ownership of factories, plants, lands, banks, means of transportation, etc., remain untouched there, and, therefore, capitalism in Germany and Italy…” quote by Joseph Stalin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/411/joseph-stalin-1734_capitalism_neither-italian-fascism-nor-german-natio_1430.jpg)
