Its first ethical precept is the identity of means used and aims sought. The ultimate end of all revolutionary social change is to establish the sanctity of human life, the dignity of man, the right of every human being to liberty and wellbeing. Unless this be the essential aim of revolution, violent social changes would have no justification. For external social alterations can be, and have been, accomplished by the normal processes of evolution. Revolution, on the contrary, signifies not mere external change, but internal, basic, fundamental change. That internal change of concepts and ideas, permeating ever-larger social strata, finally culminates in the violent upheaval known as revolution.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Goldman argues that true revolution requires means that match the goal of human dignity; violence is only justified if it serves this core ethical aim.
- In plain terms
- Revolution must aim to protect human life and liberty, not just change government structures.
- What can you take from it?
- Align your methods with your moral goals.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do your actions reflect your stated values?
- When is violence justified in social change?
Another view
Some argue immediate safety justifies short-term ethical compromises.
More from Emma Goldman
No revolution can ever succeed as a factor of liberation unless the MEANS used to further it be identical in spirit and tendency with the PURPOSES to be achiev…
Permalink to quote #31 The period of the actual revolution, the so-called transitory stage, must be the introduction, the prelude to the new social conditions. It is the threshold to…
Permalink to quote #33 The great and inspiring aims of the Revolution became so clouded with and obscured by the methods used by the ruling political power that it was hard to distin…
Permalink to quote #30
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