10 Point Summary
1. The existential necessity of resistance: The text argues that the convergence of global capitalist failure, accelerating climate change, and the rise of fascism has created a "fight or die" scenario where revolution is required for survival.
2. Action supersedes theory: While historical study and books are valuable, the text emphasizes that resistance is primarily learned and tested through action, asserting that "words and writings were all nothing" if they do not lead to doing.
3. The strategic value of "Radical Flanking": Successful movements often feature both militant and moderate wings; the presence of a militant wing makes moderate demands seem more reasonable (shifting the Overton Window) and increases the overall effectiveness of the struggle.
4. Building "cultures of resistance": Because revolution is a "long process" rather than an immediate apocalyptic event, activists must build supportive, diverse communities that are "worth living in" to sustain the movement over the long haul.
5. Momentum through intermediate victories: To overcome inertia and "cultures of defeat," movements must be strong enough to win concrete, smaller victories—such as stopping factory closures or protecting welfare—which lay the necessary groundwork for larger revolutionary change.
6. Diversity equates to resilience: Drawing on an ecological metaphor, the text posits that movements are stronger when they are diverse and multi-class, linking different organizations and social groups to invert the "divide and conquer" tactics of the powerful.
7. The importance of logistical infrastructure: "Diversity of tactics" is defined broadly to include essential support roles such as security, communications, and logistics, meaning one can be a vital ally without necessarily being on the front lines or in jail.
8. Avoiding the trap of institutionalization: Effective resistance must navigate between the "tyranny of structurelessness" (being too diffuse) and the "Nonprofit Industrial Complex," where rigid organization dampens strategic capacity.
9. The trajectory of escalation: To avoid being contained or derailed by elites, movements must generate a trajectory that includes rapidly growing numbers, diversifying focuses, and "steadily escalating commitment and militancy".
10. Redefining "giving up your life": The text concludes with a call to dedication, clarifying that "giving up your life" for the revolution means setting aside personal comforts to engage in difficult, collective work, thereby making one's life "bigger" through connection to a historical struggle.