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Militarism in both its forms - as war and as armed peace - is a legitimate child, a logical result of capitalism, which can only be overcome with the destruction of capitalism, and that hence whoever honestly desires world peace and liberation from the tremendous burden of armaments must also desire Socialism. Only in this way can real Social Democratic enlightenment and recruiting be carried on in connection with the armaments debate.

Rosa Luxemburg#6

SocialismCapitalismMilitarismPeace

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About this quote

What does it mean?
Militarism is a direct outcome of capitalism and cannot be eliminated without ending capitalism itself. True peace and disarmament require a socialist system.
In plain terms
You cannot stop war while the capitalist system exists; you need socialism for real peace.
What can you take from it?
Support socialism to achieve genuine world peace and disarmament.

Where it applies

  • anti-war movements
  • political organizing
  • policy debates

Putting it to work

  • advocate for socialism
  • critique armaments
  • educate masses

Questions to consider

  • Can peace exist under capitalism?
  • Is socialism necessary for disarmament?

Another view

This view assumes capitalism is the sole cause of war, ignoring other factors.

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