It was one of those ‘snap to attention' statements. Political theorist Jodi Dean was asked, "What is the point of theory?" Her response? "It is to provide weapons." Dean was speaking metaphorically of course, but the quote resonated. The world we find ourselves in needs a theory that can cut through the leaden fog that says we have, for better or worse, the best world we can hope for.
On the streets in New York City, popular protests are on the move, speaking to the dreams and demands of so many across the world.
Today, the Occupy Wall Street movement is on fire, from the thousands marching down Manhattan's boulevards demanding economic justice, to the inspiring voices practicing direct democracy in popular assemblies at Liberty Plaza.
Published in 2011, shortly after the Occupy movement began, This Changes Everything was published offering insights for the many already involved -- actively protesting or expressing support in other ways -- and for the millions more who sympathize with the goal of a more equitable and democratic future. This Introduction is excerpted from the book.
Something happened in September 2011 so unexpected that no politician or pundit saw it coming.
