Skip to content

With the indiscriminate nature of modern military…

“With the indiscriminate nature of modern military technology (no such thing as a "smart bomb," it turns out) all wars are wars against civilians, and are therefore inherently immoral. This is true even when a war is considered "just," because it is fought against a tyrant, against an aggressor, to…” quote by Howard Zinn
Download Open image
“With the indiscriminate nature of modern military technology (no such thing as a "smart bomb," it turns out) all wars are wars against civilians, and are therefore inherently immoral. This is true even when a war is considered "just," because it is fought against a tyrant, against an aggressor, to correct a stolen boundary.”

Howard Zinn

About This Quote

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

Modern warfare often harms civilians, questioning moral justifications.

In simple terms: War technology harms civilians, raising moral issues.

Key Takeaway

Critically assess war ethics.

Themes

war ethics civilian impact

Mood

critical somber

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • human rights advocacy
  • peace studies

Key Concepts

military technology just war theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we minimize civilian harm?
  • What alternatives exist to armed conflict?
A Different Perspective

Technological advances may reduce civilian casualties.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Howard Zinn

Explore all 461 Howard Zinn quotes

More Aggressors quotes

Browse all 89 Aggressors quotes