There is nothing negative about a group of people crying out for democracy - and if my voice counts, I will be vocal.
Shirin NeshatRead
Being political is an integral part of being Iranian. Our lives are defined by politics.
Interpretation
Being Iranian involves navigating a complex political landscape that shapes daily life.
Shirin Neshat's quote emphasizes that for Iranians, politics is not just a peripheral concern but central to their identity and existence. The intertwining of personal and political life reflects how sociopolitical events and governmental actions permeate all aspects of life in Iran, influencing individual choices, cultural expressions, and community dynamics.
In practice
During a seminar on Middle Eastern culture, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of political awareness in daily life.
Unfortunately for governments like that of Iran, when they forbid something, people become more interested.
Five decades ago, as India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, began visibly ailing, the nation and the world were consumed by the question: 'After Nehru, who?' The inexpressible fear lay in the subtext to the question: 'After Nehru, what?'
Communism may be over as an economic system, but as a model of state domination, it is very much alive in the People's Republic of China and in Putin's police state.
The Latin root of the word 'politics' means 'of the people.' Politics is about something bigger than electoral politics; in that sense, I feel like I'm already involved.
Democracy is an imperfect way of steering between the violence of anarchy and the violence of tyranny, with the least violence you can get away with.
A politician, he knows that the majority cares little for ideals or integrity. What it craves is display.
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