Anarchist Quotes
Anarchist Quotes

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Authors List


Elisee Reclus

Élisée Reclus: Geographer and Anarcho-Communist

Élisée Reclus was born on 15 March 1830 in France. He was not only a prominent geographer of his time, but also an important figure in the anarchist movement. Reclus proposed that the world's resources should be shared equitably, and in his 19-volume work, 'The Earth and Its Inhabitants', he presented a holistic view of the Earth, not just as a physical entity, but as a complex system of human and non-human interactions. His concept of nature included the human, social and cultural aspects, marking a significant shift in geographical thought.

Apart from his extensive geographical works, Reclus made notable contributions to the field of anarchism. His ideas of mutual aid and voluntary cooperation formed the basis of anarcho-communism. He was a fervent advocate of direct action and a strong critic of state power. His writings inspired many anarchists and social reformers. The breadth and depth of his works showcase his lasting impact on anarchist thought and offer valuable insights into alternative visions of society. Reclus died on 4 July 1905 after significantly contributing to the global map of anarchist thought.


Date of Birth: 15 March 1830

Date of Death: 4 July 1905

Country of Birth: France

Political Ideas: Mutual Aid, Anarcho-communism

Quotes Available: 8



Quotes by Elisee Reclus

The morality which is born out of the present conception of the state and social hierarchy is necessarily corrupt.
Do not quarrel or deal in personalities. Listen to opposing arguments after you have presented your own. Learn how to remain silent and reflect. Do not try to get the better in an argument at the expense of your own sincerity.
I am sorry to see friends impelled by passion drifting to the idea of vengeance, which is so little scientific, so sterile. But armed defense of a right is not violence.
Instead of entrusting the defence of your interests to others, see to the matter by yourselves. Instead of trying to choose advisers that will guide you in future actions, do the thing yourselves, and do it now! Men of good will shall not have to look long in vain for the opportunity. To put on others' shoulders the responsibility of one's actions is cowardice.
Not to speak of war and its crimes, from the guilt of which no civilized state is free, can it be denied that chief among the consequences of the existing social system are murder, maladies, and death.
You should reject every authority, but also commit yourself to a deep respect for all sincere convictions. Live your own life, but also allow others the complete freedom to live theirs.
Our destiny is to reach that state of ideal perfection in which nations will no longer need to be under the tutelage of a government or of another nation; it is the absence of government, it is anarchy, the highest expression of order.
Side neither with nations nor with parties. Be neither Russians, Poles nor Slavs. Rather, be men who hunger for truth, free from any thoughts of particular interests, and from speculative ideas concerning the Chinese, Africans or Europeans. The patriot always ends up hating the foreigner, and loses the sense of justice that once kindled his enthusiasm.


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