Anarchists know that a long period of education must precede any great fundamental change in society, hence they do not believe in vote begging, nor political campaigns, but rather in the development of self-thinking individuals.
Lucy ParsonsRead
Concentrated power can be always wielded in the interest of the few and at the expense of the many. Government in its last analysis is this power reduced to a science. Governments never lead; they follow progress. When the prison, stake or scaffold can no longer silence the voice of the protesting minority, progress moves on a step, but not until then.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Concentrated power can be abused, often benefiting a small group while oppressing the majority, and true progress occurs only when the voices of dissent are acknowledged.
This quote by Lucy Parsons highlights the dangers of concentrated power within governments, suggesting that such power tends to serve the interests of a privileged few rather than the many. Parsons argues that while governments may appear to lead societal progress, they are more often reactive to the demands and struggles of the people, particularly when facing resistance from marginalized voices. Only when these voices are no longer silenced can genuine progress be achieved, indicating the necessity of recognizing and valuing dissent in democratic societies.
Themes
PowerGovernmentProgressMinorityDissent
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a political speech to highlight the need for accountability in government.
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