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Accomplices Quote by Christopher Hitchens

“We become accomplices in evil every time we seek to soothe the unslakable appetites of the crime family that sits in Pyongyang.” quote by Christopher Hitchens
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“We become accomplices in evil every time we seek to soothe the unslakable appetites of the crime family that sits in Pyongyang.”

Christopher Hitchens

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview, The New Yorker, 1995

Supporting oppressive regimes by appeasing their leaders perpetuates evil and moral complicity.

In simple terms: Helping tyrants makes us complicit in wrongdoing.

Key Takeaway

Refuse to enable oppression.

Themes

morality politics complicity human rights

Mood

concern critical serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • foreign policy debates
  • humanitarian aid decisions
  • corporate investments
  • media coverage

Key Concepts

ethical responsibility power dynamics authoritarianism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions do you take that might unintentionally support oppression?
  • How can you balance diplomatic engagement with moral integrity?
A Different Perspective

Appeasing dictators can be rationalized as pragmatic, ignoring long‑term harm.

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