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It is exactly the fear of revenge that motivates the…

“It is exactly the fear of revenge that motivates the deepest crimes, from the killing of the enemy's children lest they grow up to play their own part, to the erasure of the enemy's graveyards and holy places so that his hated name can be forgotten.” quote by Christopher Hitchens
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“It is exactly the fear of revenge that motivates the deepest crimes, from the killing of the enemy's children lest they grow up to play their own part, to the erasure of the enemy's graveyards and holy places so that his hated name can be forgotten.”

Christopher Hitchens

About This Quote

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

The desire for revenge drives extreme acts, from harming innocents to erasing cultural memory, to prevent the enemy’s legacy.

In simple terms: Revenge fuels the worst crimes, targeting both people and symbols.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how vengeance can corrupt motives.

Themes

revenge violence memory justice power

Mood

angry reflective

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • war crimes
  • genocide
  • political oppression
  • historical revisionism

Key Concepts

psychology of aggression ethical decay cultural erasure

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to seek vengeance?
  • How can societies break the revenge cycle?
A Different Perspective

Revenge may seem justified but often perpetuates cycles of violence.

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