Terrorists are people, too - they are given to error…
“Terrorists are people, too - they are given to error. Naipaul and then DeLillo do a good job in their novels of drawing this out: I'm thinking of DeLillo's contention in 'Mao II' that terrorists have replaced writers as the people who 'alter the inner-life of the culture.' I thought that was marvellous!”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Terrorists are human and flawed; literature shows they can shape culture like writers do.
In simple terms: Terrorists are human; writers also influence culture.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humanity in all, even enemies.
Themes
humanity
culture
violence
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- media analysis
- counterterrorism education
- creative writing
- public discourse
Key Concepts
psychology
literature
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does literature affect our view of terror?
- Can empathy reduce conflict?
A Different Perspective
Focusing on humanity may overlook the need for security measures.