There is a certain indolence in us, a wish not to be disturbed, which tempts us to think that when things are quiet, all is well. Subconsciously, we tend to give the preference to 'social peace,' though it be only apparent, because our lives and possessions seem then secure. Actually, human beings acquiesce too easily in evil conditions; they rebel far too little and too seldom. There is nothing noble about acquiescence in a cramped life or mere submission to superior force.
A. J. MusteIn the defense of civil liberties there can be no exceptions, or there will soon be many.
A. J. MusteThe problem after a war is with the victor. He thinks he has just proved that war and violence pay. Who will now teach him a lesson?
A. J. MusteWe cannot have peace if we are only concerned with peace. War is not an accident. It is the logical outcome of a certain way of life. If we want to attack war, we have to attack that way of life.
A. J. MusteThe survival of democracy depends on the renunciation of violence and the development of nonviolent means to combat evil and advance the good.
A. J. MusteJoy and growth come from following our deepest impulses, however foolish they may seem to some, or dangerous, and even though the apparent outcome may be defeat.
A. J. MusteEducational enterprises do not for any length of time remain immune from the struggle of interests for power which is the dominant feature of social life under a class system.
A. J. Muste