Anti war Quote by Christopher Hitchens
““As he grew older, which was mostly in my absence, my firstborn son, Alexander, became ever more humorous and courageous. There came a time, as the confrontation with the enemies of our civilization became more acute, when he sent off various applications to enlist in the armed forces. I didn't want to be involved in this decision either way, especially since I was being regularly taunted for not having 'sent' any of my children to fight in the wars of resistance that I supported. (As if I could 'send' anybody, let alone a grown-up and tough and smart young man: what moral imbeciles the 'anti-war' people have become.)””
About This Quote
Source Book: God Is Not Great, A Journey to the Roots of Religion, 2007
He describes his son’s enlistment, his own anti‑war stance, and the paradox of being pressured to “send” his child to fight despite opposing war.
In simple terms: He feels conflicted about his son joining the military while he opposes war.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge personal conflict and discuss values openly.
Themes
family
war
morality
politics
parenthood
Mood
conflicted
reflective
tense
Type
personal
political
familial
When to use this quote
- discussing political views with children
- supporting a child's career choice
- navigating societal pressure
- balancing personal beliefs with family decisions
Key Concepts
anti‑war sentiment
patriotic duty
moral paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile personal convictions with a child's autonomy?
- What responsibilities do parents have when their values clash with their children's decisions?
A Different Perspective
His anti‑war identity may blind him to his son's agency and the complexities of individual choice.
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