My Disillusionment in Russia · Chapter
Afterword explained
In this concluding chapter, Emma Goldman reflects on the fundamental failure of the Russian Revolution, arguing that the Bolsheviks merely replaced one authoritarian regime with another, betraying the true revolutionary values of liberty, e
What happens
In this concluding chapter, Emma Goldman reflects on the fundamental failure of the Russian Revolution, arguing that the Bolsheviks merely replaced one authoritarian regime with another, betraying the true revolutionary values of liberty, equality, and human dignity. She critiques the Communist State's centralization, its perversion of ethical values through the principle that 'the end justifies all means,' and its suppression of independent organizations like the Soviets, trade unions, and cooperatives. Goldman contrasts the authoritarian method with the libertarian ideal, asserting that only a revolution that fundamentally transforms human and social values—rather than merely shifting political power—can be truly successful. She also examines Lenin's pragmatic and compromising leadership, the role of the Anarchists, and the lessons for future revolutions.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal of Revolutionary Ideals
Goldman argues that the Bolsheviks betrayed the revolution by substituting one dictatorship for another, suppressing liberty, equality, and human dignity in favor of state power.
State Power vs. Individual Freedom
The chapter contrasts the authoritarian state's centralization and control with the libertarian ideal of free initiative and popular participation, condemning the Communist State as inherently reactionary.
Ethics and Revolutionary Means
Goldman critiques the principle that 'the end justifies all means,' drawing a parallel between Bolshevism and Jesuitism, and showing how it led to lying, deceit, and murder.
Disillusionment with Revolution
Goldman expresses deep disillusionment with the Russian Revolution, which she sees as a tragic failure that destroyed revolutionary values and caused immense suffering.
Characters to notice
- Lenin
Critiqued as a pliable politician who sacrificed revolutionary ideals for state power, issuing the slogan 'Rob the robbers' and implementing policies that led to bureaucracy and inequality.
- Zinoviev
Mentioned as canonizing Dzerzhinsky, the head of the Cheka, as the 'saint of the Revolution,' illustrating the perversion of ethical values.
- Trotsky
Referenced as being appointed Minister of War, exemplifying the Bolshevik conception of revolution as mere political scene shifting.
- Emma Goldman
The author and narrator, presenting her personal reflections and conclusions on the Russian Revolution, emphasizing the need for a libertarian transformation of values.
Key passages
“Revolution is indeed a violent process. But if it is to result only in a change of dictatorship, in a shifting of names and political personalities, then it is hardly worth while.”
Goldman argues that a revolution that merely replaces one dictator with another, without transforming underlying values, is not worth the immense cost in human life and culture.
This encapsulates her central critique of the Bolshevik revolution as a superficial political change.
“The end justifies all means.”
Goldman identifies this slogan as the root of the Bolsheviks' moral corruption, leading to violence, deceit, and the suppression of revolutionary ideals.
She draws a historical parallel to the Jesuits and the Inquisition to emphasize the destructive consequences.
“Lenin was the most pliable politician in history. He could be an ultra-revolutionary, a compromiser and conservative at the same time.”
Goldman portrays Lenin as a pragmatic and opportunistic leader who adapted his policies to maintain power, often betraying his own revolutionary slogans.
This critique highlights Lenin's role in the betrayal of revolutionary principles.
“Only free initiative and popular participation in the affairs of the revolution can prevent the terrible blunders committed in Russia.”
Goldman advocates for decentralized, libertarian organization as the only way to avoid the failures of centralized state control.
She uses examples of fuel shortages and agricultural inefficiency to illustrate the harm caused by Bolshevik centralization.
