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For these reasons, the trade of a soldier is held the most…

“For these reasons, the trade of a soldier is held the most honorable of all others, because a soldier is a Yahoo hired to kill, in cold blood, as many of his own species, who have never offended him, as possibly he can.” quote by Jonathan Swift
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““For these reasons, the trade of a soldier is held the most honorable of all others, because a soldier is a Yahoo hired to kill, in cold blood, as many of his own species, who have never offended him, as possibly he can.””

Jonathan Swift

About This Quote

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

A soldier is cynically described as a hired killer of his own species, highlighting the paradox of honor in warfare.

In simple terms: Soldiers are portrayed as hired killers.

Key Takeaway

Question the morality of war.

Themes

war honor humanity

Mood

critical philosophical

Type

ethical historical

When to use this quote

  • military service
  • political debate
  • peace activism
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy military ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is war ever truly honorable?
  • How does language shape our view of soldiers?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex motives.

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