Moribund Society and Anarchy · Chapter
XXIII: The Unvarnished Truth explained
The chapter argues that anarchist propaganda must be grounded in truth and reason, not empty promises or sentimental appeals.
What happens
The chapter argues that anarchist propaganda must be grounded in truth and reason, not empty promises or sentimental appeals. It warns against authoritarian attitudes within the movement, emphasizes the need for clear ideas and patient education, and acknowledges the difficulty of realizing anarchist ideals in a society built on government and law.
Themes in this chapter
Propaganda by Deed
Emphasizes that anarchist influence comes through action and example, not mere promises or sentimental phrases.
Critique of Reformism
Rejects the empty promises of political parties and charlatans who divert attention with superficial reforms.
Individualism and Solidarity
Warns against treating the masses as passive dough and stresses the need for each individual to stand on their own feet through clear propaganda.
Characters to notice
- Anarchy
Portrayed as having nothing to promise, ask, or give, in contrast to political parties.
- The Anarchists
Criticized for sometimes treating the masses as plastic dough and for harboring authoritarian remnants.
- Unknown Narrator
Speaks for 'we' who prefer securing conviction through logic and reason, and who seek the unvarnished truth.
Key passages
“If we were a political party anxious to get into power, we might make a lot of promises to people in order to get ourselves carried to the top; but it is a different thing with Anarchy; we have nothing to promise, nothing to ask, nothing to give.”
Unlike political parties that make grand promises to gain power, anarchists offer no rewards or demands.
Highlights the contrast between anarchist honesty and political manipulation.
“We must get used to looking at things coldly, and not persist in regarding the object of our desires through magnifying glasses, and the thing to be dreaded through the little end of the lorgnette.”
We must view reality without distortion, neither exaggerating our hopes nor minimizing our fears.
Advocates for clear-eyed analysis in propaganda.
“Let us spread our ideas, explain them, elucidate them, remodel them if necessary. Let us not fear to look the truth in the face.”
We should openly share, clarify, and adapt our ideas, never shying away from the truth.
Encourages intellectual honesty and flexibility in anarchist education.