Among the calamities of war may be justly numbered the…
“Among the calamities of war may be justly numbered the diminution of the love of truth by falsehoods which interest dictates and credulity encourages. A peace will equally leave the warrior and the relater of wars destitute of employment; and I know not whether more is to be dreaded from streets filled with soldiers accustomed to plunder, or from garrets filled with scribblers accustomed to lie.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
War erodes truth as falsehoods thrive, and peace leaves both soldiers and storytellers unemployed, creating new societal dangers.
In simple terms: War harms truth and peace creates unemployment for warriors and writers.
Key Takeaway
Beware the loss of truth and purpose after conflict.
Themes
truth
war
peace
employment
society
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
observational
When to use this quote
- military demobilization
- journalism
- education
- civic discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy
political critique
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does war affect honesty in society?
- What can replace the purpose of soldiers and chroniclers in peace?
A Different Perspective
Peace may not solve underlying moral decay; new roles must be found.