“Power is not a means, it is an end. One does not establish a dictatorship in order to safeguard a revolution; one makes the revolution in order to establish the dictatorship.”
- June 25, 1903 – January 21, 1950
- Born in India during the British colonial period
- Author, journalist
- Through his representative works “1984” and “Animal Farm,” he presented sharp criticism of totalitarianism and the abuse of power, greatly influencing contemporary literature and thought.
Quote
“Power is not a means, it is an end. One does not establish a dictatorship in order to safeguard a revolution; one makes the revolution in order to establish the dictatorship.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell critiques the corrupting nature of power in political revolutions. Orwell argues that power is often not simply a tool or a means to achieve a greater goal—such as freedom, equality, or justice—but rather the ultimate end in itself for those who seek it. In Orwell’s view, revolutionary movements, particularly those claiming to fight for the masses, often end up creating a new form of dictatorship once they gain power. The goal of the revolution becomes less about liberating people and more about consolidating and maintaining control for the new rulers. Rather than preserving the original revolutionary ideals, the dictatorship becomes the true aim of the revolution, with the people’s welfare serving as a secondary concern.
Orwell’s personal experience during the Spanish Civil War and his disillusionment with both fascism and Stalinism deeply influenced his perspective. In works like Animal Farm and 1984, Orwell explores how revolutionary leaders often become indistinguishable from the oppressive figures they initially sought to overthrow. In Animal Farm, the animals’ revolution against their oppressive human master ultimately leads to a new tyranny, with the pigs assuming power and replicating the same abuses as their predecessors. This reflects Orwell’s belief that revolutions, even those launched with high ideals, are often hijacked by those who desire power for its own sake.
This idea remains relevant in modern political discourse, where revolutions or uprisings—though initially motivated by a desire for change—can sometimes lead to authoritarian regimes. Whether in the aftermath of the Arab Spring or in various socialist or communist revolutions, there are numerous examples where the leadership that rises to power ultimately establishes dictatorial control. Orwell’s warning reminds us that power itself can be a corrupting force, and even the most well-intentioned revolutions may end up creating new forms of oppression. His words serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unfettered power and the temptation to prioritize control over the original ideals of justice and equality.
