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It cannot be sufficiently emphasized that revolution is in vain unless inspired by its ultimate ideal. Revolutionary methods must be in tune with revolutionary aims. The means used to further the revolution must harmonize with its purposes. In short, the ethical values which the revolution is to establish in the new society must be initiated with the revolutionary activities of the so-called transitional period. The latter can serve as a real and dependable bridge to the better life only if built of the same material as the life to be achieved.

Emma Goldman#36

SocietyRevolutionEthicsValues

About this quote

What does it mean?
Revolutionary methods must match the values of the society they hope to create.
In plain terms
Build the new society using the same values you want in the end.
What can you take from it?
Practice the values you wish to see.

Where it applies

  • movement building
  • organizational culture
  • reform efforts

Putting it to work

  • embed values in daily actions
  • align tactics with vision

Questions to consider

  • Are you living the change you want?
  • How do methods shape outcomes?

Another view

Transitional periods often require compromises that conflict with final goals.

More from Emma Goldman

  1. Witness the tragic condition of Russia. The methods of State centralization have paralysed individual initiative and effort; the tyranny of the dictatorship ha…

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  2. The free expression of the hopes and aspirations of a people is the greatest and only safety in a sane society.

    Permalink to quote #37
  3. To-day is the parent of to-morrow. The present casts its shadow far into the future. That is the law of life, individual and social. Revolution that divests it…

    Permalink to quote #34

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