Werner [Swedish communist leader] is getting used to publicly denouncing the misdeeds of his fellow party members around the World. But he should perhaps start asking himself if it is not Leninism itself that is to blame. Parlament speech, 1980, on the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Critiquing individual party members is insufficient; the systemic ideology of Leninism itself may be the root cause of misdeeds.
- In plain terms
- Don't just blame individuals; question the system they follow.
- What can you take from it?
- Examine ideological systems, not just individual actions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is the system to blame for its members' actions?
- Where should criticism be directed?
Another view
Ideology alone may not explain all individual actions.
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