"In the same way that Robinson [Crusoe] was able to obtain a sword, we can just as well suppose that [Man] Friday
might appear one fine morning with a loaded revolver in his
hand, and from then on the whole relationship of violence is
reversed: Man Friday gives the orders and Crusoe is obliged to work. . . . Thus, the revolver triumphs over the sword, and
even the most childish believer in axioms will doubtless form
the conclusion that violence is not a simple act of will, but
needs for its realization certain very concrete preliminary conditions, and in particular the implements of violence; and the
more highly developed of these implements will carry the day
against primitive ones. Moreover, the very fact of the ability
to produce such weapons signifies that the producer of highly
developed weapons, in everyday speech the arms
manufacturer, triumphs over the producer of primitive weapons. To put it briefly, the triumph of violence depends upon the production of armaments, and this in its turn depends on production in general, and thus . . . on economic strength, on the economy of the State, and in the last resort on the material means which that violence commands.*" — Engels, Anti-Dühring
manufacturer, triumphs over the producer of primitive weapons. To put it briefly, the triumph of violence depends upon the production of armaments, and this in its turn depends on production in general, and thus . . . on economic strength, on the economy of the State, and in the last resort on the material means which that violence commands.*" — Engels, Anti-Dühring
In fact, the leaders of reform have nothing else to say
than: "With what are you going to fight the settlers?
With your knives? Your shotguns?"
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