And you,” continued he, “you have in your camp some Obi, I…
““And you,” continued he, “you have in your camp some Obi, I hear — some impostor like this Romaine the Prophet. I well know that having to lead an army composed of so many heterogeneous materials, a common bond is necessary; but can it be found no where save in ferocious fanaticism and ridiculous superstition? Believe me, Biassou, the white men are not so cruel as we are. I have seen many planters protect the lives of their slaves. I am not ignorant that in some cases it was not the life of a man, but a sum of money that they desired to save; but at any rate their interest gave them the appearance of a virtue.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker argues that shared belief and fanaticism bind diverse groups, suggesting moral ambiguity in cruelty and virtue.
In simple terms: Belief and fanaticism unite people, but moral lines blur.
Key Takeaway
Beware of blind allegiance and false virtue.
Themes
leadership
morality
social cohesion
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political movements
- military units
- colonial societies
- revolutionary groups
Key Concepts
fanaticism
virtue
hypocrisy
Questions to Reflect On
- What true bonds can replace fanaticism?
- How do we discern genuine virtue from self‑serving motives?
A Different Perspective
Blind devotion can mask cruelty and self‑interest.