“Rioting is a childish way of trying to be a man, but it takes time to rise out of the hell of hatred and frustration and accept that to be a man you don’t have to riot.”
- April 1, 1908 – June 8, 1970
- American
- Psychologist, Creator of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Humanistic Psychology Pioneer
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Quote
“Rioting is a childish way of trying to be a man, but it takes time to rise out of the hell of hatred and frustration and accept that to be a man you don’t have to riot.”
Explanation
In this quote, Abraham Maslow examines the psychological roots of violence and rebellion, particularly as expressions of immature attempts at asserting identity, power, or masculinity. He frames rioting as a misguided expression of manhood, driven by deep frustration, alienation, and emotional pain. While condemning the act, he shows compassion for the inner turmoil that fuels it, recognizing that those who riot are often trapped in environments of deprivation, anger, and despair.
Maslow’s humanistic psychology insists that growth takes time, especially for individuals who have experienced systemic injustice or emotional deprivation. The quote does not justify violence, but rather calls attention to the conditions that produce it and the inner journey required to transcend it. To “rise out of the hell of hatred” is to engage in emotional maturation, and to realize that true strength and identity come not from destruction but from self-awareness, dignity, and constructive action.
In a modern context, this quote offers a nuanced perspective on social unrest, especially in marginalized communities. It suggests that long-term solutions must address not just symptoms but root causes—poverty, exclusion, and the absence of respect. Maslow’s message is ultimately one of hope: with time, support, and understanding, individuals can grow beyond rage into purpose, finding ways to assert themselves not through violence, but through meaningful contribution and self-respect.
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