[D]iscipline consists in this, that the men who undergo…
![“[D]iscipline consists in this, that the men who undergo the instruction and have followed it for a certain time are completely deprived of everything which is precious to a man-of the chief human property, rational freedom-and become submissive, machine-like implements of murder in the hands of…” quote by Leo Tolstoy](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/11d/leo-tolstoy-55_anti-war_d-iscipline-consists-in-this-that-the-me_2140397.jpg)
“[D]iscipline consists in this, that the men who undergo the instruction and have followed it for a certain time are completely deprived of everything which is precious to a man-of the chief human property, rational freedom-and become submissive, machine-like implements of murder in the hands of their organized hierarchic authorities.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Discipline can strip individuals of rational freedom, turning them into obedient tools for violent authority.
In simple terms: Discipline can rob people of free thought, making them obedient killers.
Key Takeaway
Guard personal autonomy against blind obedience.
Themes
authority
obedience
violence
humanity
Mood
serious
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- military training
- corporate culture
- political indoctrination
- law enforcement
- propaganda
Key Concepts
totalitarianism
psychology
free will
Questions to Reflect On
- How does discipline affect moral responsibility?
- When does obedience become complicity?
A Different Perspective
Even disciplined societies may retain critical thinking and moral agency.