Following orders Quote by Arthur T. Bradley
““We have strict rules—” “You’re murdering innocent people,” she said, suddenly short of breath. “Our government is killing its own citizens.” “We’re following orders,” he said flatly.””
About This Quote
Source Short story excerpt, 2021
Characters confront moral conflict between obeying orders and the harm caused by those orders.
In simple terms: Following orders can cause harm; moral choice matters.
Key Takeaway
Question authority when it leads to injustice.
Themes
ethics
obedience
government
violence
Mood
serious
tense
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- military
- political protest
- law enforcement
Key Concepts
moral responsibility
civil disobedience
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you refuse an order?
- What are the costs of speaking out?
A Different Perspective
Blind obedience can cause atrocities.
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