"All reactionaries are paper tigers"

The quote "All reactionaries are paper tigers", credited to Mao Tse-Tung, is a metaphorical declaration reflecting the Chinese leader's viewpoint on political power characteristics, particularly throughout innovative battles. Mao used this phrase to explain his belief that those who oppose revolutionary development-- labelled as "reactionaries"-- may appear powerful and daunting at a shallow level, similar to the visage of a tiger. However, upon closer assessment, their strength is as poor as paper, and they are ultimately destined for defeat.

To interpret this, it's vital to comprehend Mao's context and ideology. Throughout the mid-20th century, Mao led the Communist Party of China in a transformation that intended to topple the existing governmental structures, which he thought about overbearing and out-of-date. Reactionaries, in his view, were those who withstood these modifications, consisting of imperialists, capitalists, and traditionalists, who appeared to command authority and control.

Mao's choice of metaphor serves to embolden advanced spirits by asserting that these relatively formidable foes lack real power, particularly in the face of a committed, ideological movement. He suggested that the reactionaries' power derived more from understanding than from truth, underpinning his belief that their social and political structures were inherently weak and unsustainable. By calling them "paper tigers", Mao recommended that their risks were hollow and might be conquered through unity, technique, and determination on the part of the revolutionaries.

The quote also reflects a wider philosophical stance within Marxist and Leninist idea, where existing class structure, perceived as natural and permanent by their protectors, are scrutinized and ultimately dismantled by innovative forces. By framing reactionaries as "paper tigers", Mao sought to galvanize assistance amongst his followers, instilling confidence that success was achievable regardless of the challenges posed by entrenched powers. It underscores the optimism inherent in innovative ideology that looks for to set up a new socio-political order.