To defeat evil, we may have to traffic in evils…
“To defeat evil, we may have to traffic in evils: indefinite detention of suspects, coercive interrogations, targeted assassinations, even pre-emptive war.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Combating evil may require morally dubious tactics like detention, interrogation, assassination, or pre‑emptive war.
In simple terms: Fighting evil can involve evil means.
Key Takeaway
Weigh moral costs of security.
Themes
ethics
security
politics
Mood
critical
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- military planning
- legal debate
Key Concepts
moral compromise
counterterrorism tactics
Questions to Reflect On
- When is force justified?
- What alternatives exist?
A Different Perspective
Such tactics can erode moral authority.