There is no way to peace. Peace is the way.
A. J. MusteRead
In a world built on violence, one must be a revolutionary before one can be a pacifist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
To promote peace effectively, one must first challenge and change the violent systems in place.
This quote by A. J. Muste expresses the idea that true pacifism is not just about avoiding violence but involves actively confronting and transforming the entrenched systems of violence in society. It suggests that being a revolutionary, fighting against oppression and injustice, is a necessary precursor to achieving lasting peace, highlighting the complexities and challenges in the pursuit of a non-violent world.
Themes
ViolencePacifismRevolutionPeaceChange
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on social justice, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of activism in creating a peaceful society.
More from A. J. Muste
All quotes βWe cannot have peace if we are only concerned with peace. War is not an accident. It is the logical outcome of a certain way of life. If we want to attack war, we have to attack that way of life.
A. J. MusteRead
There is a certain indolence in us, a wish not to be disturbed, which tempts us to think that when things are quiet, all is well. Subconsciously, we tend to give the preference to 'social peace,' though it be only apparent, because our lives and possessions seem then secure. Actually, human beings acquiesce too easily in evil conditions; they rebel far too little and too seldom. There is nothing noble about acquiescence in a cramped life or mere submission to superior force.
A. J. MusteRead
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