"Idealism is the despot of thought, just as politics is the despot of will"

Mikhail Bakunin, a significant Russian revolutionary and philosopher associated with anarchism, presents a compelling review of idealism and politics with the phrase, "Idealism is the despot of thought, just as politics is the despot of will". This declaration encapsulates his skepticism towards both abstract philosophical idealism and the nature of political structures.

Bakunin's assertion that "idealism is the despot of idea" can be comprehended as a critique of how idealism, which often includes focusing on abstract suitables or principles over useful truths, can dominate and restrict intellectual flexibility. Idealism, in Bakunin's view, can lead to a rigid structure in which thought is restricted to sticking to particular dogmas or ideologies. By identifying it a "despot", he implies that idealism exercises a tyrannical control over the mind, suppressing imagination and innovation. This follows anarchist apprehension toward any type of authority that enforces itself upon private autonomy and intellectual freedom.

Likewise, Bakunin's comparison of politics to the "despot of will" suggests that political systems apply an aggressive influence over people' desires and actions. In this sense, politics are viewed as systems that frequently focus on the upkeep of power and control over real empowerment and self-determination of people. As a staunch supporter of private flexibility and skepticism of centralized authority, Bakunin highlights how political institutions can push individuals, limiting their ability to act according to their own will.

Together, these ideas reflect Bakunin's more comprehensive philosophical position versus all kinds of supremacy and control, whether they are ideological or institutional. He promotes for the liberation of both idea and action from the constraints enforced by traditional systems of authority. In essence, Bakunin's quote requires a consciousness that is free from the shackles of oppressive ideologies and governance, promoting a vision of society where people are unbound and self-directed.