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About this quote

What does it mean?
Goldman defines anarchism as a philosophy that rejects God, State, and society as illusions, emphasizing human unity and self-consciousness.
In plain terms
Anarchism teaches self-awareness and rejects external authority.
What can you take from it?
Seek self-realization without external control.

Where it applies

  • political theory
  • personal growth
  • activism

Putting it to work

  • study anarchist philosophy
  • challenge authority structures

Questions to consider

  • Can you live without any authority?
  • What does self-consciousness mean to you?

Another view

It assumes all external structures are inherently oppressive.

More from Emma Goldman

  1. All wars are wars among thieves who are too cowardly to fight and therefore induce the young manhood of the whole world to do the fighting for them.

    Permalink to quote #47
  2. Before we can forgive one another, we have to understand one another.

    Permalink to quote #49
  3. After all, that is what laws are for, to be made and unmade.

    Permalink to quote #46

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