Mass movements do not usually rise until the prevailing order has been discredited.

This quote suggests that mass movements, such as social, political, or cultural revolutions, typically do not occur until the existing system or order is seen as flawed or ineffective. In other words, people are unlikely to rally for change if they still have faith in the current system. It is only when the status quo is discredited, either because of its failures or its inability to meet people’s needs and expectations, that they begin to seek alternatives and are willing to support or participate in mass movements that promise change.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see it reflected in various social and political movements. For instance, the Black Lives Matter movement gained significant momentum following numerous instances of police brutality, which discredited the existing law enforcement and justice systems in the eyes of many. Similarly, the #MeToo movement rose from the discrediting of societal norms and institutions that had long turned a blind eye to sexual harassment and assault.

In terms of personal development, this concept could be applied to the idea that significant personal change or growth often does not occur until one’s current habits or behaviors are seen as inadequate or detrimental. For example, someone might not decide to quit smoking until they have a health scare, or they might not decide to pursue a new career until they realize how unhappy they are in their current job. This realization acts as the discrediting of their existing ‘order’, prompting them to seek change.