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In reality, it si more fruitful to wound than to kill…

“In reality, it si more fruitful to wound than to kill. While the dead man lies still, counting only one man less, the wounded man is a progressive drain upon his side.” quote by B. H. Liddell Hart
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“In reality, it si more fruitful to wound than to kill. While the dead man lies still, counting only one man less, the wounded man is a progressive drain upon his side.”

B. H. Liddell Hart

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author suggests that wounding an enemy is more strategically valuable than killing, as the wounded become a continuous burden.

In simple terms: Wounded opponents cause ongoing problems, more than dead ones.

Key Takeaway

Weigh long‑term impacts of actions in conflict.

Themes

military strategy resource management psychology

Mood

strategic analytical

Type

military philosophical

When to use this quote

  • war planning
  • logistics
  • psychological warfare

Key Concepts

wounding enemy strategic advantage

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it moral to prefer wounding?
  • What are the long‑term costs?
A Different Perspective

Ethical concerns arise when valuing suffering over death.

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