Randy says, “You asked me earlier what is the highest and…
““Randy says, “You asked me earlier what is the highest and best purpose to which we could dedicate our lives. And the obvious answer is ‘to prevent future Holocausts.’ ” Avi laughs darkly. “I’m glad it’s obvious to you , my friend. I was beginning to think I was the only one.” “What!? Get over yourself, Avi. People are commemorating the Holocaust all the time.” “Commemorating the Holocaust is not , not not not not not , the same thing as fighting to prevent future holocausts. Most of the commemorationists are just whiners. They think that if everyone feels bad about past holocausts, human nature will magically transform, and no one will want to commit genocide in the future.” “I take it you do not share this view, Avi?” “Look at Bosnia!” Avi scoffs. “Human nature doesn’t change, Randy. Education is hopeless. The most educated people in the world can turn into Aztecs or Nazis just like that.” He snaps his fingers. “So what hope is there?” “Instead of trying to educate the potential perpetrators of holocausts, we try to educate the potential victims . They will at least pay some fucking attention .””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Preventing future atrocities requires more than remembrance; education alone may not change human nature.
In simple terms: Holocaust remembrance isn’t enough to stop future genocides.
Key Takeaway
Focus on protecting potential victims and proactive measures.
Themes
ethics
memory
genocide prevention
Mood
somber
urgent
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- human rights policy
- community vigilance
- memorial design
Key Concepts
human nature
educational efficacy
preventive justice
Questions to Reflect On
- What practical steps can reduce future genocides?
- How can societies balance remembrance with active prevention?
A Different Perspective
Risk of fatalism, ignoring root causes.