This Is Hell! Can One Change The World When Elections And Protests Fail? / Sasha Davis
Nov 2, 2025
Sasha Davis, a writer and professor specializing in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, delves into his book, discussing fresh opportunities for social justice movements. He examines the stagnation of protests and elections, arguing that the state often serves capital rather than the public. Topics include the concept of counter-occupations as a bold tactic for change, the historical context often overlooked in movements, and the dual role of law in protecting rights and enabling state power. Davis offers a tactical framework for grassroots governance to inspire renewed activism.
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Hope Isn't Binary
- Many young people feel an existential lack of hope due to climate and social crises.
- Sasha Davis argues meaningful change is still possible and not strictly binary doom or salvation.
Protests Alone Won't Finish The Job
- Protests build solidarity, visibility, and political literacy but rarely finish policy change alone.
- Davis says protests must be paired with other tactics because they often fail to move governance long-term.
State Is Working As Designed
- The state often functions exactly as designed to protect capital and existing power structures.
- Davis emphasizes many systemic harms predate particular administrations and reflect built-in state incentives.
