Jerry Rubin Quotes

Powerful Jerry Rubin for Daily Growth

About Jerry Rubin

Jerry Rubin (July 8, 1938 – September 28, 1994) was an American political activist, countercultural figure, and co-founder of the Youth International Party, popularly known as the Yippies. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Rubin attended Tulane University before dropping out to pursue his activist career. Inspired by the Civil Rights Movement and the anti-Vietnam War protests, Rubin became a central figure in the 1960s counterculture. He was known for his flamboyant style, long hair, and use of humor as a political tool. Alongside Abbie Hoffman and Stew Albert, he co-founded the Yippies, famous for their unconventional tactics, such as staging mock stock exchange "acid-ins" to protest Wall Street and organizing the Chicago Seven, a group of anti-war activists charged with conspiracy to incite riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Rubin's major works include his books "Do It! Scenarios of the Revolution" (1970) and "Growing (Up) at God's Red Oak Tree" (1972), both reflecting his political beliefs and experiences. In "Do It!", Rubin advocated for direct action, participatory democracy, and personal empowerment, while his autobiography delved into his childhood, activism, and philosophies. After the Yippies disbanded in 1972, Rubin shifted focus to business ventures, founding a clothing line, Jerry's Baked Goods, and running for political offices under various parties. However, he continued to advocate for social change throughout his life. Rubin died of a heart attack in 1994 at the age of 56, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a pioneering figure in countercultural activism. His impact can still be felt today in movements fighting for peace, justice, and individual freedom.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The purpose of life is to count the number of moments to see if it adds up to a meaningful life."

Jerry Rubin's quote emphasizes the importance of living intentionally, making every moment in life meaningful, rather than merely existing or passing time aimlessly. It encourages us to take stock of our experiences, relationships, and achievements to gauge whether they contribute positively to our personal growth, happiness, and overall sense of purpose. By doing so, we can lead a more fulfilling life and ensure that the sum of our moments adds up to something significant in terms of personal satisfaction and self-realization.


"Revolution is an ideal subject for a poster but a difficult subject for a political party."

This quote suggests that while the concept of revolution – change, rebellion, or overthrow – can be easily represented visually as a powerful and appealing idea (like on a poster), implementing it through a political party involves complexities and challenges. In essence, the quote highlights the discrepancy between the idealistic and the practical aspects of revolutionary change.


"If we were rational people, there would be no need for revolutions."

This quote by Jerry Rubin suggests that a society functions based on its ability to change and evolve. Revolutions symbolize significant shifts in societal norms, values, or structures which may not be achievable through rational dialogue alone, especially when the existing power dynamics are entrenched. The need for revolutions implies that established systems may become stagnant or oppressive, necessitating change to move forward and address societal ills. In essence, Rubin highlights that progress often requires breaking away from the status quo, even if it seems illogical or irrational in a purely rational context.


"Don't be afraid of going too far, because you can't go any further than the limits of your imagination."

This quote by Jerry Rubin emphasizes that one should not be deterred by fear when venturing into new territories or pursuing ambitious ideas, as there is no limit to what can be achieved if guided by an active and creative imagination. In other words, the only boundaries are those we set for ourselves, and the true extent of our potential lies within the confines of our own thoughts and dreams.


"The system is what it is, and revolution is the only way to change it."

This quote by Jerry Rubin emphasizes the idea that the current state or order of things (the "system") may be deeply flawed or oppressive. He suggests that the only effective means to bring about meaningful change is through revolution – a fundamental shift in power, values, or structures, often involving political or social upheaval. This quote encourages those who feel discontent with the status quo to actively seek transformation and work towards creating a more equitable society.


Most men act so tough and strong on the outside because on the inside, we are scared, weak, and fragile. Men, not women, are the weaker sex.

- Jerry Rubin

Strong, Sex, Inside, Weaker

The backseat produced the sexual revolution.

- Jerry Rubin

Sexual Revolution, Sexual, Backseat

A lot of these industries are having difficulty finding reliable workers with the skills they require.

- Jerry Rubin

Skills, Difficulty, Lot, Industries

The problem with fame is that you get frozen in one frame and nothing you can do can alter the nature.

- Jerry Rubin

Nature, Problem, Get, Frame

Some of the greatest social reformers of our time were wealthy.

- Jerry Rubin

Some, Wealthy, Social, Our Time

By the end, everybody had a label - pig, liberal, radical, revolutionary... If you had everything but a gun, you were a radical but not a revolutionary.

- Jerry Rubin

Gun, Everybody, Radical, Revolutionary

I would be copping out if I stayed in the myth of the '60s.

- Jerry Rubin

Out, Would, Stayed, Myth

The individual who signs the check has the ultimate power.

- Jerry Rubin

Signs, Individual, Ultimate, Check

Every person on the streets of New York is a type. The city is one big theater where everyone is on display.

- Jerry Rubin

New, Big, Streets, Display

The power to define the situation is the ultimate power.

- Jerry Rubin

Power, Ultimate, Define

Don't trust anyone over thirty.

- Jerry Rubin

Trust, Over, Anyone, Thirty

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.