Change from below, the formulation of demands from the populace to end unacceptable injustice, supported by direct action, has played a far larger part in shaping British democracy than most constitutional lawyers, political commentators, historians or statesmen have ever cared to admit. Direct action in a democratic society is fundamentally an educational exercise.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Direct action by the public drives democratic change more than elites admit, serving as a form of education.
- In plain terms
- People forcing change through action teaches society more than laws do.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize grassroots action as a driver of democracy.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is direct action necessary?
- Who gets credit for change?
Another view
Direct action can sometimes destabilize without clear goals.
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