Meaning: Abbie Hoffman, a well-known activist and countercultural figure, expressed a powerful sentiment in this quote, advocating for a shift in perspective and a commitment to peace and respect for life. The quote reflects Hoffman's opposition to the dehumanizing influence of corporate power and the machinery of war, both literal and metaphorical, and his call for a more compassionate and interconnected approach to life.

In the first part of the quote, "Become an internationalist and learn to respect all life," Hoffman urges individuals to adopt a global perspective and cultivate a deep reverence for all forms of life. By encouraging internationalism, Hoffman promotes the idea of transcending narrow nationalistic boundaries and recognizing the inherent worth of people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. This call to respect all life extends beyond human beings to encompass animals, plants, and the natural world, reflecting a holistic and inclusive ethic of compassion.

The subsequent statement, "Make war on machines," is a metaphorical exhortation to challenge the dehumanizing and destructive forces of technology and industrialization. Hoffman's use of the term "war" conveys a sense of urgency and determination in confronting the pervasive influence of mechanization and automation in modern society. This could be interpreted as a rejection of the alienation and commodification of human life that can result from the relentless pursuit of technological progress at the expense of human well-being and environmental sustainability.

The phrase "the sterile machines of corporate death and the robots that guard them" further elucidates Hoffman's critique of the dehumanizing impact of corporate power and the systems of control and exploitation it engenders. The term "sterile machines" evokes an image of soulless, mechanistic structures that perpetuate profit-driven agendas at the expense of human dignity and ecological balance. The reference to "robots" as the guardians of these machines symbolizes the dehumanized agents of corporate interests, acting in service of impersonal and destructive forces.

As an activist, Hoffman was deeply engaged in challenging the status quo and advocating for social justice, often using provocative and confrontational tactics to draw attention to systemic injustices. His call to "make war on machines" can be seen as a rallying cry for individuals to resist and subvert oppressive structures, whether they manifest as literal machinery or as the bureaucratic, dehumanizing apparatus of corporate hegemony.

Overall, Hoffman's quote encapsulates a passionate plea for a fundamental shift in human consciousness and societal values, emphasizing the importance of interconnectedness, empathy, and a rejection of dehumanizing systems of power. It urges individuals to awaken to the destructive impact of corporate and technological dominance and to strive for a world where all life is valued and respected. In an era marked by increasing alienation and environmental degradation, Hoffman's words serve as a poignant reminder of the imperative to cultivate a more humane and harmonious relationship with each other and the natural world.