The reactionaries are in possession of force, in not only the army and police, but in the press and the schools

The reactionaries are in possession of force, in not only the army and police, but in the press and the schools

John Dewey, a prominent American philosopher and educator, was a strong advocate for democracy and believed in the power of education to promote social progress and equality. However, Dewey also recognized the challenges posed by reactionary forces that sought to maintain the status quo and resist change.

In his work, Dewey often discussed the influence of reactionary forces in society, particularly in institutions such as the army, police, press, and schools. He argued that these institutions were often controlled by conservative elites who used their power to suppress dissent and maintain their own interests. Dewey believed that this control of force by reactionaries posed a significant threat to democracy and the ability of individuals to freely express themselves and participate in the political process.

Dewey was particularly concerned about the role of the press and schools in shaping public opinion and perpetuating the interests of the ruling class. He believed that the media and educational institutions played a crucial role in shaping the beliefs and values of society, and that reactionary forces often used these platforms to promote their own agenda and suppress alternative viewpoints.