Meaning: This quote, attributed to British politician Tony Benn, captures the often challenging and iterative nature of progress. It outlines a common trajectory for individuals or movements that are advocating for change or innovation. The progression described in the quote reflects the resistance and skepticism that often accompanies new ideas or movements before they are ultimately accepted.

The first stage in the quote is "First they ignore you." This stage represents the initial dismissal or disregard of the new idea or movement. When something is new or unfamiliar, it is common for people to overlook or downplay its significance. This stage reflects a lack of attention or acknowledgment, as the established order or prevailing attitudes may not yet see the value or impact of the new idea.

The second stage is "then they say you're mad." At this stage, the reaction to the new idea or movement shifts from indifference to active dismissal and ridicule. When faced with something that challenges the status quo, people may resort to labeling its proponents as eccentric, irrational, or even delusional. This stage reflects a resistance to change and a tendency to marginalize those advocating for something different.

The third stage is "then dangerous." As the new idea or movement gains traction and begins to challenge existing power structures or entrenched interests, it is often portrayed as a threat. This portrayal may be fueled by fear of the unknown, as well as by vested interests seeking to protect their positions. The characterization of the new idea or movement as dangerous is an attempt to discredit and undermine its legitimacy.

The fourth stage is "then there's a pause." This stage suggests a moment of reflection or recalibration. As the new idea or movement persists and continues to gain support, there may be a period of reassessment. The initial resistance and hostility may give way to a more nuanced consideration of the potential benefits and implications of the proposed change. This pause represents a shift in the collective mindset, as the once-dismissed idea begins to garner serious attention.

The final stage is "then you can't find anyone who disagrees with you." This stage marks the ultimate acceptance and normalization of the once-controversial idea or movement. As it becomes increasingly clear that the new idea has merit and relevance, the resistance and skepticism fade away. The once-radical notion becomes mainstream, and its proponents find themselves in broad agreement with the wider population.

Tony Benn's quote encapsulates the arduous journey of progress, highlighting the resistance and skepticism that often precede widespread acceptance. It serves as a reminder that challenging the status quo and advocating for change is a process fraught with obstacles and pushback. However, it also offers hope by illustrating that persistence and perseverance can ultimately lead to transformative shifts in attitudes and beliefs.

In the context of history and social change, this quote finds resonance in numerous examples of movements and ideas that were initially met with skepticism and opposition before becoming widely accepted. From the struggle for civil rights to the advancement of scientific theories, the trajectory outlined in the quote aligns with the experiences of many transformative movements and groundbreaking ideas.

In the realm of politics, Tony Benn himself was a prominent figure known for his advocacy of progressive policies and social justice. Throughout his career, he often found himself at odds with established power structures and faced criticism for his views. His quote could be seen as a reflection of his own experiences and a testament to the resilience required to effect meaningful change in the face of resistance.

In conclusion, Tony Benn's quote succinctly captures the challenging and often protracted nature of progress. It serves as a reminder that the path to change is rarely smooth or linear, but rather marked by resistance, skepticism, and ultimately, acceptance. By acknowledging and understanding this progression, individuals and movements advocating for change can find reassurance and motivation to persist in the face of adversity.