Meaning: The quote "As citizens, we all have an obligation to intervene and become involved - it's the citizen who changes things" by Jose Saramago, a renowned Portuguese writer and Nobel Prize winner, encapsulates the essence of civic responsibility and the power of individual agency in effecting change within society. Saramago's words underscore the idea that the collective actions of ordinary citizens are essential for instigating meaningful transformation and progress.

At the heart of Saramago's quote is the principle of civic engagement, which emphasizes the active participation of individuals in the affairs of their community, nation, and the world at large. By calling attention to the "obligation to intervene and become involved," Saramago highlights the moral and ethical imperative for citizens to take a proactive role in addressing social, political, and humanitarian issues. This notion challenges the notion of passivity and apathy, emphasizing the responsibility of each person to contribute to the betterment of society.

Saramago's assertion that "it's the citizen who changes things" underscores the profound impact that individual agency and collective action can have on shaping the course of history. Throughout the annals of time, it has often been the concerted efforts of impassioned citizens that have spurred transformative movements, toppled oppressive regimes, and championed noble causes. From civil rights struggles to environmental conservation initiatives, the indomitable spirit of citizen-led activism has been instrumental in effecting tangible change.

Moreover, Saramago's quote serves as a reminder that the power to effect change lies within the hands of ordinary people. It dispels the notion that transformative action is solely the purview of political leaders, influential figures, or institutions of authority. Instead, it empowers individuals to recognize their capacity to be catalysts for change, thereby fostering a sense of agency, empowerment, and responsibility within the broader societal fabric.

The quote also resonates with the concept of participatory democracy, which posits that the active engagement of citizens is fundamental to the functioning and vitality of democratic systems. In a truly democratic society, the voices, actions, and aspirations of the citizenry play a pivotal role in shaping public policies, influencing decision-making processes, and holding those in power accountable. Saramago's words serve as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that citizens play in upholding the principles of democracy and safeguarding the common good.

Furthermore, Saramago's quote underscores the interconnectedness of individual actions and their collective impact on the broader tapestry of society. It reinforces the idea that each person's contributions, however small they may seem, can coalesce to effect profound and far-reaching change. By instilling a sense of communal responsibility and solidarity, the quote encourages individuals to recognize their shared stake in the well-being and progress of their community, thereby fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.

In conclusion, Jose Saramago's quote "As citizens, we all have an obligation to intervene and become involved - it's the citizen who changes things" encapsulates the fundamental role of civic engagement, individual agency, and collective action in effecting positive change within society. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential inherent in the proactive involvement of citizens and underscores the enduring significance of ordinary people in shaping the course of history. Saramago's words resonate as a clarion call for citizens to embrace their responsibility in driving societal progress, promoting justice, and upholding the values of democracy and civic participation.