Become an internationalist and learn to respect all life. Make war on machines. And in particular the sterile machines of corporate death and the robots that guard them.

The quote "Become an internationalist and learn to respect all life. Make war on machines. And in particular the sterile machines of corporate death and the robots that guard them" by Abbie Hoffman reflects his radical political beliefs and his opposition to the growing influence of corporations and technology in society. Hoffman, a countercultural icon and activist during the 1960s and 1970s, often spoke out against the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and corporate power. In this quote, he encourages people to embrace internationalism, which promotes unity and solidarity across national borders, while also advocating for a more humane and respectful approach to all forms of life.

The phrase "make war on machines" metaphorically calls for resistance against the forces of technology and capitalism that prioritize profit over human well-being. Hoffman’s reference to the sterile machines of corporate death is a critique of the impersonal, profit-driven systems that he believed were undermining individual freedoms and the natural world. His use of the term "sterile" conveys how these systems are devoid of humanity and compassion, operating solely for economic gain at the expense of the environment and society.

Hoffman’s call to target the robots that guard them highlights the role of automation and technological advancements in maintaining the power structures of corporate capitalism. He viewed technology, particularly in its mechanized and automated forms, as a tool used to suppress human potential and increase corporate control. This part of the quote evokes an image of machines and robots acting as enforcers of a system that benefits the few while exploiting the many.

Ultimately, Hoffman’s words are a rallying cry for resistance against a world where corporate power, technological advancement, and dehumanization threaten to overshadow the value of human life and social well-being. His message is both a call to action and a plea for a more compassionate and respectful approach to both people and the world around us.