“To rely upon conviction, devotion, and other excellent spiritual qualities; that is not to be taken seriously in politics.”
- April 22, 1870 – January 21, 1924
- Born in the Russian Empire
- Revolutionary, political theorist, lawyer, state leader
- He led the Russian Revolution and is known as the founder of the Soviet Union. He put Marxist theory into practice and became a symbolic figure in the communist movement of the 20th century.
Quote
“To rely upon conviction, devotion, and other excellent spiritual qualities; that is not to be taken seriously in politics.”
Explanation
In this quote, Lenin critiques the romantic idealism of relying on abstract virtues such as conviction and devotion without considering the practical realities of political struggle. He emphasizes that politics, particularly revolutionary politics, is not a matter of moral purity or personal ideals, but requires pragmatic, strategic thinking and a clear understanding of material conditions. While he acknowledged the importance of passion in motivating movements, Lenin believed that true political success was rooted in tangible action, organization, and disciplined leadership.
Historically, this reflects Lenin’s critique of political utopianism, especially within the socialist movement. He argued that idealistic notions of a perfect society, without consideration for the existing power structures, could lead to failure. During the Russian Revolution, Lenin was deeply involved in the practical aspects of seizing and consolidating power, focusing on strategy, timing, and the building of strong, centralized leadership. In his view, relying solely on idealism or moral integrity could be a fatal flaw for revolutionaries.
In modern political contexts, this quote serves as a warning against overreliance on idealism without grounding in pragmatic governance. Many contemporary political movements face the challenge of balancing principles and values with the complex, often harsh realities of political power. Lenin’s sentiment is echoed in modern discussions about realpolitik, where leaders must navigate not only ideological commitments but also alliances, compromises, and the hard necessities of governance.
