Skip to content

At times because of one man’s evil, ten thousand people…

“At times because of one man’s evil, ten thousand people suffer. So you kill that one man to let the tens of thousands live. Here, truly, the blade that deals death becomes the sword that saves lives.” quote by Yamamoto Tsunetomo
Download Open image
““At times because of one man’s evil, ten thousand people suffer. So you kill that one man to let the tens of thousands live. Here, truly, the blade that deals death becomes the sword that saves lives.””

Yamamoto Tsunetomo

About This Quote

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

A single evil individual can cause massive suffering, so eliminating them may protect many, turning lethal force into a protective act.

In simple terms: Removing a harmful person can save many lives.

Key Takeaway

Consider the greater good over individual life.

Themes

ethics violence utilitarianism

Mood

conflicted serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • war
  • justice system
  • self‑defense
  • political oppression

Key Concepts

Moral calculus self‑preservation collective safety

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it ever justified to sacrifice one for many?
  • What safeguards prevent abuse of such logic?
A Different Perspective

The act of killing raises moral dilemmas and may cause unintended consequences.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Yamamoto Tsunetomo

Explore all 105 Yamamoto Tsunetomo quotes

More Blade quotes

Browse all 238 Blade quotes