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Barbarism? Hah! When we kills people we do it there and…

“Barbarism? Hah! When we kills people we do it there and then, lookin' 'em in the eye, and we'd be happy to buy 'em a drink in the next world, no harm done. I never knew a barbarian who cut up people slowly in little rooms, or tortured women to make 'em look pretty, or put poison in people's grub…” quote by Terry Pratchett
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““Barbarism? Hah! When we kills people we do it there and then, lookin' 'em in the eye, and we'd be happy to buy 'em a drink in the next world, no harm done. I never knew a barbarian who cut up people slowly in little rooms, or tortured women to make 'em look pretty, or put poison in people's grub. Civilization? If that's civilization, you can shove it where the sun don't shine!””

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

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

A satirical critique of how so-called civilization can be more brutal than barbarism when it hides cruelty behind bureaucracy and politeness.

In simple terms: Civilization can hide cruelty.

Key Takeaway

Question hidden cruelty in everyday systems.

Themes

satire civilization barbarism morality hypocrisy

Mood

ironic provocative critical

Type

satirical political

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • media analysis
  • education
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

social critique ethical paradox

Questions to Reflect On

  • What modern practices seem civilized but are harmful?
  • How can we expose hidden cruelty?
A Different Perspective

The quote exaggerates for effect and may overlook genuine humanitarian progress.

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