In this text, I’d like to philosophize a bit about revolution. I’ve been pondering this topic lately, and I fear that my desire for revolution—a fundamental change to the system and its functions—stems from a romantic notion. But perhaps I’m simply too pessimistic. Furthermore, I’d like to share a couple of thoughts on the topic of activism. Secretly, I hope that my thoughts, here or elsewhere, will spark a lively discussion.
REVOLUTION! How often have I shouted this word with deep conviction and at the top of my lungs! Born in 1977, I was fortunate enough to experience my childhood in the 80s and my youth in the fantastic 90s. On the whole, I had a well-protected upbringing in Hanover before moving to Hamburg in my early twenties. The big, wide world was calling. So, it’s fair to say that I’m a child of a particularly prosperous era in wealthy Europe. Due to my life experiences, I realized early on that this world is anything but fair, and I clearly expressed my rejection of the state, war, and environmental destruction. Punk was my refuge and a place of escape in a world dominated by big business. I had an absolute desire to change this state of disproportionately unjust distribution of wealth. So I began demanding revolution without giving much thought to its true meaning.
As I’ve grown older, little has changed in the conditions on this planet, as this unjust distribution has only increased rather than decreased. My desire for revolution remains unbroken, but doubts are growing within me. I increasingly wonder what the alternatives might be and whether it’s actually possible to mobilize such a large mass of people that something like a revolution is even possible. Is a peaceful, system-changing revolution feasible, or must such things always be bloody? Of course, there have been peaceful revolutions in human history, but without having verified them, my gut feeling tells me there have been more militant ones. Revolution requires immense effort and, crucially, a very large, dissatisfied segment of the population. Do we have such a large segment within our population? If not, is it even possible for us to generate such a large segment? If not, does it even make sense to demand, let alone implement, a revolution? And as already mentioned, what is the goal? What is the alternative? To replace the puppets, exchange them, and then carry on as before? Shouldn’t the real aim be to create a more just system for all people in the world? But is that even possible with the current state of humanity? If so, shouldn’t we instead focus on concrete measures, formulating tangible, convincing programs that can be implemented after a successful revolution? If not, then demanding a revolution is about as sensible as trying to sell patio heaters in the Sahara.
An activist is someone who is active.
Activism is good. Those who are active demonstrate that they are interested in change and want to help shape it. Or at the very least, the activist wants to draw other people’s attention to the fact that something needs to change. Greenpeace tried a long time ago to stop large whaling ships from hunting with small inflatable boats, thereby attracting considerable attention. What about Greenpeace itself? Riding in inflatable boats probably doesn’t help draw attention to a changing climate. Although, in my opinion, plastering your face to the ground is just as effective. In any case, it certainly stirs up emotions. It makes people angry. But angry at what? At incompetent politicians, or at young people who are disrupting their work/free time? Does this create a critical mass, or not? Does displaying colorful signs at organized demonstrations help to oust an incompetent government, or is it simply a way to shift the responsibility for action onto other, braver, more capable people? Does it help to draw attention to intolerable conditions at traffic circles weekend after weekend, or is it just a cherished hobby where you meet great, nice, like-minded people?
I really don’t want to discourage or provoke anyone! These are simply thoughts that have been with me over the New Year and that I just needed to get off my chest. I would be happy if we all took on more responsibility. In my opinion, we can only change the system if we become active shapers of it. Found associations, cooperatives, communities! Let’s create new realities for ourselves instead of demanding that others create them for us. Everyone in their own region, in their own community, and together across the globe. If you have any particular questions…
The Yes Men rule the world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMWv3VY-4v8
