A "just war" is hospitable to every self-deception on the…
“A "just war" is hospitable to every self-deception on the part of those waging it, none more than the certainty of virtue, under whose shelter every abomination can be committed with a clear conscience.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
War is often rationalized by moral certainty, allowing atrocities to be justified as virtuous acts.
In simple terms: Moral certainty hides war crimes.
Key Takeaway
Question war motives.
Themes
ethics
war
self-deception
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- military decision making
- public discourse
Key Concepts
moral psychology
just war theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does moral certainty influence war decisions?
- What checks can prevent self-deception in conflict?
A Different Perspective
War justification can ignore real harm.