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Well, if they are trying to kill you, on the whole they're…

“Well, if they are trying to kill you, on the whole they're the people you have to kill, aren't they?” quote by John Keegan
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“Well, if they are trying to kill you, on the whole they're the people you have to kill, aren't they?”

John Keegan

About This Quote

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

In lethal conflict, the enemy becomes the target of survival, justifying reciprocal violence.

In simple terms: Kill those who try to kill you.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the logic of self‑defense.

Themes

war survival ethics of combat

Mood

critical serious

Type

military ethical

When to use this quote

  • combat
  • defensive tactics
  • policy making

Key Concepts

military strategy moral dilemmas

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is killing justified?
  • What alternatives exist to violence?
A Different Perspective

The view may simplify complex moral considerations of war.

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