I'm trying to get to a deep future, but in order to get to a deep future, I had to think about the deep past.

In this quote, Mary Daly, a feminist philosopher and theologian, expresses the idea that to understand and shape the deep future, one must first engage with the deep past. Daly suggests that the future is not something that exists in isolation, but is deeply connected to the historical and cultural contexts that have shaped it. By reflecting on the past, particularly its gender dynamics, social structures, and philosophical foundations, one can better understand how to build a more equitable and enlightened future.

Daly's statement reflects her belief that historical knowledge is critical for creating lasting change. She believed that many of the issues facing women and society at large are rooted in deep-seated historical and patriarchal structures. Understanding these roots allows us to confront and challenge them, paving the way for a more empowered future. The idea of a "deep future" speaks to a vision of progress that is transformative, rather than merely incremental, and requires profound shifts in our way of thinking.

The origin of this quote is tied to Daly’s work as a feminist thinker and her critique of traditional religious and social systems. Her philosophical approach often centered on challenging dominant narratives about women, gender, and power. By saying she must consider the deep past to reach the deep future, Daly emphasizes her view that the process of change must be rooted in a thorough understanding of historical patterns, particularly those of oppression and subjugation.

Ultimately, Daly’s quote underscores the idea that to create meaningful change and move toward a better future, we must critically examine the past and understand the patterns that have led us to the present. Only by confronting and understanding the past can we truly transform the future, especially in terms of social justice and gender equality.