Evil can be opposed without being mirrored. Oppressors can be resisted without being emulated. Enemies can be neutralized without being destroyed.
Walter WinkRead
In 1989, thirteen nations comprising 1,695,000 people experienced nonviolent revolutions that succeeded beyond anyone's wildest expectations . . . If we add all the countries touched by major nonviolent actions in our century (the Philippines, South Africa . . . the independence movement in India . . .) the figure reaches 3,337,400,000, a staggering 65% of humanity! All this in the teeth of the assertion, endlessly repeated, that nonviolence doesn't work in the 'real' world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the effectiveness of nonviolent revolutions in shaping history despite widespread skepticism.
Walter Wink's quote emphasizes the remarkable success of nonviolent movements throughout the late 20th century, illustrating that a significant portion of the world's population has experienced transitions catalyzed by peaceful resistance. By citing various countries and the vast numbers of people involved, Wink challenges the notion that nonviolence is ineffective in achieving real change, bringing attention to the power of collective peaceful action in the face of adversity.
Themes
NonviolenceRevolutionChangeHumanityPower
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about social change, one might cite this quote to inspire action through peaceful means.
More from Walter Wink
All quotes →The 'peace' the gospel brings is never the absence of conflict, but an ineffable divine reassurance within the heart of conflict; a peace that surpasses understanding.
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