When I say that terrorism is war against civilization, I…
“When I say that terrorism is war against civilization, I may be met by the objection that terrorists are often idealists pursuing worthy ultimate aims -- national or regional independence, and so forth. I do not accept this argument. I cannot agree that a terrorist can ever be an idealist, or that the objects sought can ever justify terrorism. The impact of terrorism, not merely on individual nations, but on humanity as a whole, is intrinsically evil, necessarily evil and wholly evil.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Terrorism is intrinsically evil, regardless of claimed ideals, and cannot be justified.
In simple terms: Terrorism is always evil.
Key Takeaway
Condemn and prevent terrorism unequivocally.
Themes
ethics
terrorism
politics
Mood
somber
urgent
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- national security policy
- counter‑terrorism training
- public education
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
security studies
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Can any cause justify violence?
- How to address root causes without legitimizing terror?
A Different Perspective
Complex motives may blur moral judgments.