Meaning: The quote, "If on the one side we do not harbor the illusion that the entire proletariat must be enlightened before it can be called into battle, so on the other we do not doubt that as much enlightenment as possible must be produced with oral and printed agitation," by Johann Most, a prominent figure in the revolutionary socialist movement, reflects the complex and nuanced approach to the role of education and enlightenment in the revolutionary struggle. Johann Most, a German-American anarchist, was a highly influential figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for his fiery speeches and radical writings that advocated for the overthrow of the capitalist system.

The quote encapsulates Most's pragmatic understanding of the relationship between revolutionary action and the dissemination of knowledge and ideas. It acknowledges that the entire proletariat, or working class, does not need to be fully enlightened before engaging in the struggle against oppressive systems of power. This recognition is grounded in the understanding that the conditions of poverty, exploitation, and alienation experienced by the proletariat are urgent and cannot always wait for a comprehensive enlightenment of all individuals within the class. Instead, it suggests that the revolutionary struggle can begin even as the process of enlightenment and education continues.

At the same time, Most emphasizes the importance of producing "as much enlightenment as possible" through oral and printed agitation. This underscores the belief that education and the spread of revolutionary ideas are essential components of the struggle for social and economic justice. By utilizing oral communication, such as speeches and conversations, as well as printed materials like pamphlets and newspapers, the dissemination of radical ideas can reach a wider audience and potentially mobilize more individuals to join the revolutionary cause.

Most's perspective reflects a recognition of the multi-faceted nature of revolutionary change. It acknowledges the immediate need for action and resistance against oppressive forces, while also emphasizing the vital role of education and consciousness-raising in building a strong and informed movement for social transformation. This approach aligns with the broader tradition of revolutionary thought, which has often grappled with the question of how to balance the urgency of addressing immediate injustices with the longer-term goal of fundamentally restructuring society.

Furthermore, Most's emphasis on oral and printed agitation as vehicles for enlightenment points to the significance of communication and information dissemination in the context of revolutionary movements. The use of speeches and written materials as tools for spreading radical ideas and galvanizing support has been a consistent feature of revolutionary struggles throughout history. By engaging in oral and printed agitation, revolutionaries seek to challenge dominant narratives, raise consciousness, and mobilize the oppressed and marginalized to demand fundamental change.

In contemporary contexts, the quote can be seen as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of the relationship between education, communication, and social change. It speaks to the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in the dissemination of radical ideas, as well as the need to engage with diverse audiences through different forms of communication. In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and the proliferation of digital media, the principles underlying Most's words continue to resonate, calling attention to the power of communication and the dissemination of knowledge in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.

In conclusion, Johann Most's quote encapsulates a nuanced understanding of the role of enlightenment and education in revolutionary struggles. It acknowledges the urgency of action while emphasizing the importance of spreading radical ideas through oral and printed agitation. By recognizing the complexities of the relationship between consciousness-raising and revolutionary action, Most's words continue to offer insights that are relevant to contemporary discussions about social change, communication, and the pursuit of justice.