Meaning: The quote, "Powerful states can maintain themselves only by crime, little states are virtuous only by weakness," is attributed to Mikhail Bakunin, a prominent Russian revolutionary and anarchist thinker. This thought-provoking statement reflects Bakunin's views on power dynamics and the nature of statehood. In order to understand the deeper meaning behind this quote, it is important to delve into Bakunin's revolutionary philosophy and the historical context in which he developed his ideas.

Mikhail Bakunin was a key figure in the development of anarchism as a political ideology. He was a staunch critic of centralized authority and believed in the abolition of the state and the establishment of a society based on voluntary associations and decentralized governance. Bakunin's revolutionary writings and activism were deeply rooted in his opposition to the oppressive nature of state power and his vision of a society based on freedom, equality, and solidarity.

The quote can be interpreted in the context of Bakunin's anarchist worldview. Bakunin argued that powerful states, which exert control and dominance over their citizens and other nations, can only sustain their authority through oppressive and criminal means. This reflects his belief that the existence of a powerful state inherently involves the suppression of individual liberties and the perpetuation of injustice.

On the other hand, Bakunin suggests that smaller or weaker states may appear virtuous in comparison to their more powerful counterparts. However, he contends that their perceived virtue is contingent on their lack of capability to exert influence and control. In Bakunin's view, the apparent virtue of smaller states is not rooted in a genuine commitment to ethical principles, but rather in their inherent weakness and inability to assert dominance.

This quote also speaks to Bakunin's critique of the concept of virtuous governance within the framework of statehood. He challenges the notion that states, regardless of their size, can embody virtuous principles, arguing that the structures of power and authority inherent in statehood are fundamentally at odds with true virtue and morality.

Bakunin's ideas on the relationship between power and morality continue to be relevant in contemporary political discourse. His critique of state power and his advocacy for decentralized, non-coercive forms of social organization have resonated with anarchist and anti-authoritarian movements around the world.

In conclusion, Mikhail Bakunin's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of power and virtue within the context of states and governance. It encapsulates his critical stance towards the oppressive nature of powerful states and his skepticism of the virtue associated with smaller states. By delving into Bakunin's revolutionary philosophy, we gain insight into his vision of a society free from the coercive structures of the state and based on principles of freedom, equality, and mutual aid.