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Lao Tse, village philosopher, believed that the richer a…

“Lao Tse, village philosopher, believed that the richer a nation is, the poorer it becomes. He believed that knowing war teaches peace, because suffering inhabits glory: Every action provokes reactions. Violence always returns. Only thistles and thorns grow where armies encamp. War summons hunger…” quote by Eduardo Galeano
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““Lao Tse, village philosopher, believed that the richer a nation is, the poorer it becomes. He believed that knowing war teaches peace, because suffering inhabits glory: Every action provokes reactions. Violence always returns. Only thistles and thorns grow where armies encamp. War summons hunger. He who delights in conquest, delights in human pain. Every victory should be celebrated with a funeral.””

Eduardo Galeano

About This Quote

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

War creates cycles of suffering; prosperity and conquest breed poverty and pain, and each victory carries hidden loss.

In simple terms: War brings suffering and hidden loss.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the true cost of conflict.

Themes

war poverty humanity violence consequence

Mood

somber reflective

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • political analysis
  • historical reflection
  • social commentary

Key Concepts

cycle of retaliation illusion of wealth cost of conquest

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does prosperity affect societal values?
  • What hidden costs accompany victory?
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