"To my utter despair I have discovered, and discover every day anew, that there is in the masses no revolutionary idea or hope or passion"
- Mikhail Bakunin
About this Quote
In this quote, Mikhail Bakunin expresses his deep disappointment and despondence towards the masses. He exposes that despite his continuous search, he has actually found no indications of an advanced idea, hope, or enthusiasm amongst the masses. This declaration reflects his belief that the majority of people are not efficient in starting modification or challenging the existing social and political systems. Bakunin, a Russian revolutionary and anarchist, believed in the power of the people to topple overbearing governments and produce a society based upon equality and freedom. However, his realization that the masses lack the drive and vision for transformation highlights the challenges and restrictions of attaining true social modification.
"I weep for the liberty of my country when I see at this early day of its successful experiment that corruption has been imputed to many members of the House of Representatives, and the rights of the people have been bartered for promises of office"