If we are willing to act violently in pursuit of a…
“If we are willing to act violently in pursuit of a peripheral interest, everyone can be certain that, when a vital interest is at stake, we will be still more violent. 'Credibility' is defined as the willingness to kill a lot of people now for a not very good cause to assure the world that we'll kill a lot more people if we can find a better one.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Argues that willingness to use violence for minor goals erodes moral credibility when vital interests arise.
In simple terms: Violence for small goals harms credibility.
Key Takeaway
Avoid using force for peripheral aims.
Themes
ethics
politics
violence
credibility
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
essay
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- activism
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
realpolitik
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does selective violence affect long‑term trust?
- Can moral authority be restored after aggression?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex geopolitical decisions.