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Funny Quote by Ambrose Bierce

“HOMICIDE, n. The slaying of one human being by another. There are four kinds of homicide: felonious, excusable, justifiable, and praiseworthy, but it makes no great difference to the person slain whether he fell by one kind or another -- the classification is for advantage of the lawyers.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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““HOMICIDE, n. The slaying of one human being by another. There are four kinds of homicide: felonious, excusable, justifiable, and praiseworthy, but it makes no great difference to the person slain whether he fell by one kind or another -- the classification is for advantage of the lawyers.””

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Devil’s Dictionary, 1906

Defines homicide and mocks legal classifications, highlighting their irrelevance to the victim.

In simple terms: Legal labels don’t change the tragedy of death.

Key Takeaway

Question the usefulness of legal jargon.

Themes

law morality death

Mood

satirical critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • courtroom discussions
  • ethical debates
  • policy making

Key Concepts

philosophical critical analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do legal categories help or hinder justice?
  • How does language shape our perception of violence?
A Different Perspective

Oversimplifies complex moral issues.

4.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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