Human beings are so made that the ones who do the crushing feel nothing; it is the person crushed who feels what is happening. Unless one has placed oneself on the side of the oppressed, to feel with them, one cannot understand.

Summary

This quote speaks to the inherent power dynamics in society and the empathy required to truly comprehend the pain of those who are oppressed. It suggests that those in a position of dominance often remain unaffected by the suffering they inflict, whereas it is the oppressed individuals who bear the brunt of their actions. To gain true understanding, one must align themselves with the oppressed, empathize with their struggles, and actively support their cause. Only then can a genuine comprehension of the oppressive experience be attained.

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