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But men are now united in states; that work is done; why…

“But men are now united in states; that work is done; why now maintain exclusive devotion to one's own state, when this produces terrible evils for all.” quote by Leo Tolstoy
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“But men are now united in states; that work is done; why now maintain exclusive devotion to one's own state, when this produces terrible evils for all.”

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

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

Men unite in states and work, yet cling to exclusive loyalty to their own state, which creates widespread suffering.

In simple terms: Exclusive loyalty to one's state creates suffering.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize common humanity over narrow loyalty.

Themes

politics loyalty humanity

Mood

critical hopeful urgent

Type

political ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • national debates
  • policy making
  • community building
  • conflict resolution
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

statehood collectivism conflict ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What balances loyalty to community with global responsibility?
  • How can we reduce the evils of exclusive devotion?
A Different Perspective

The quote assumes all state loyalty is harmful, ignoring protective aspects.

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