A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything.
Malcolm XRead
I don't even call it violence when it's in self defense; I call it intelligence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the idea that defending oneself is a rational and intelligent action rather than an act of violence.
Malcolm X's quote reflects the belief that self-defense is a justified and sensible response to aggression. It suggests that one should not view self-defense through the lens of violence, but instead see it as a smart and necessary measure to protect oneself from harm. This perspective challenges conventional perceptions of violence and highlights the importance of personal safety and the right to defend oneself when faced with danger.
Themes
Self DefenseIntelligenceViolenceCourageProtection
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about personal safety during a self-defense seminar.
More from Malcolm X
All quotes βI have more respect for a man who lets me know where he stands, even if he's wrong, than the one who comes up like an angel and is nothing but a devil.
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When you want a nation, that's called nationalism... Black nationalism. A revolutionary is a Black nationalist. He wants a nation.
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So over you is the greatest enemy a man can have β and that is fear. I know some of you are afraid to listen to the truth β you have been raised on fear and lies. But I am going to preach to you the truth until you are free of that fear...
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Usually when people are sad, they don't do anything. They just cry over their condition. But when they get angry, they bring about a change.
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Time is on the side of the oppressed today, it's against the oppressor. Truth is on the side of the oppressed today, it's against the oppressor. You don't need anything else.
Malcolm XRead
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