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Quote by Howard Zinn

“And our topic is topsy-turvy: civil disobedience. As soon as you say the topic is civil disobedience, you are saying our problem is civil disobedience. That is not our problem.... Our problem is civil obedience. Our problem is the numbers of people all over the world who have obeyed the dictates of the leaders of their government and have gone to war, and millions have been killed because of this obedience. And our problem is that scene in All Quiet on the Western Front where the schoolboys march off dutifully in a line to war. Our problem is that people are obedient all over the world, in the face of poverty and starvation and stupidity, and war and cruelty. Our problem is that people are obedient while the jails are full of petty thieves, and all the while the grand thieves are running the country. That's our problem.”

Quote by Howard Zinn

Book:The Zinn Reader: Writings on Disobedience and Democracy
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The Zinn Reader: Writings on Disobedience and Democracy

This book compiles a selection of writings by historian and political activist Howard Zinn, focusing on the importance of dissent and the role of citizens in shaping democratic societies. more

Author

Howard Zinn
Howard Zinn

American historian known for his critical analysis of historical events and advocacy for social justice. His work emphasizes the connection between history and contemporary social issues, particularly focusing on the role of ordinary people in the historical process. more

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