In my turn, I ask you:
What would have impelled Proudhon, a Roman slave, to play the part of Spartacus?
What would have impelled Proudhon, a feudal serf, to organize a Jacquerie?
What would have impelled Proudhon, a black slave, to become a Toussaint L'Ouverture?
What would have impelled Proudhon, a Russian serf, to take the character of Poutgachef?
What would have impelled Proudhon, a citizen of '89, to overthrow the privileges of the nobility and the clergy?
What would impel Proudhon ... but I will not touch on reality.
What would Proudhon have replied to all the holders of prerogatives and supremacy, who would not have failed on their part to have put to him the naïve question: "Ah! what does this vile slave, this unworthy serf, this audacious and stupid citizen want of us, then? To which of our faculties, our virtues, our prerogatives does he aspire? Is this the cry of his outraged nature, or an aberration of his understanding?"
The answer that Proudhon would make, is that which will be made to him by all women who have attained majority.
There is in the brain of woman, say you, an organ which the masculine mind alone is capable of setting in motion. Render the service then to science of pointing it out and demonstrating its manner of working. As to the other organ of which you speak, it is its inertia, doubtless, that has caused it to be defined by some, parvum animal furibondum, octo ligamentis alligatum. Before choosing anatomical and physiological facts as proofs of your assertions, consult some learned physician; such is the counsel given you, not only by my obstetrical, but also by my medical sagacity.