Meaning: This quote, attributed to Elia Kazan, a renowned film and stage director, reflects his experience and perspective on the impact of communism on democratic practices. Elia Kazan was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, known for his work in directing classic films such as "On the Waterfront" and "A Streetcar Named Desire," as well as for his involvement in the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) hearings during the Red Scare era in the United States.

In this quote, Kazan expresses his observation that the ideology and practices of communism were in direct conflict with the democratic norms and routines that he was accustomed to. The word "automatically" suggests that the clash between communism and democracy was inherent and unavoidable, indicating a fundamental incompatibility between the two systems as perceived by Kazan. His use of the term "violated" conveys a sense of disruption and infringement upon the established democratic processes, implying that the introduction of communist principles disrupted or disregarded the democratic practices that Kazan valued.

Kazan's reference to "the daily practices of democracy" alludes to the routine, everyday workings of democratic governance, including principles such as freedom of speech, fair elections, and the protection of individual rights. From his perspective, the influence of communism posed a threat to these familiar and cherished democratic practices, prompting him to perceive it as a violation. It is important to note that Kazan's perspective should be understood within the context of his experiences during the Cold War era, when tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union fueled intense ideological and political divisions.

During the mid-20th century, the spread of communism and the ideological struggle between the capitalist West and the communist East led to widespread fear and suspicion of communist influence in the United States. This period, known as the Red Scare, was characterized by aggressive anti-communist sentiments and the implementation of policies aimed at rooting out perceived communist sympathizers. Kazan himself became embroiled in this fervent anti-communist atmosphere when he appeared as a witness before the HUAC and named former colleagues in the entertainment industry as members of the Communist Party, a decision that continues to generate debate and controversy.

In light of Kazan's personal and professional experiences, his perspective on communism and democracy should be understood as deeply influenced by the political climate and events of his time. The quote reflects the deep-seated anxieties and concerns that permeated American society during the Cold War, as well as the profound impact of political ideologies on individual perceptions of governance and societal norms.

From a broader historical and political context, the quote can also be interpreted as emblematic of the broader ideological struggle between communism and democracy during the 20th century. The Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union was not merely a geopolitical competition, but also a clash of competing ideologies, with each side seeking to demonstrate the superiority of its political and economic system.

In conclusion, Elia Kazan's quote encapsulates the intersection of personal experience, historical context, and ideological conflict. His observation that communism "automatically violated" the democratic practices to which he was accustomed reflects the deep divisions and anxieties of the Cold War era, while also highlighting the enduring tension between competing systems of governance. Understanding the quote requires an appreciation of the intense ideological and political dynamics of the time, as well as the individual experiences that shaped Kazan's perspective on the interaction between communism and democracy.