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Bad thing Quote by D.E. Stevenson

“The Major would be laughing at me,’ replies Alec, smiling. ‘But no, I would be wanting no war for him. It is only that I am glad now there was one for me. I was not glad at the time, no, not altogether glad. Wars are bad things, and we want no more of them – but there is good in them for the lucky…” quote by D.E. Stevenson
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““The Major would be laughing at me,’ replies Alec, smiling. ‘But no, I would be wanting no war for him. It is only that I am glad now there was one for me. I was not glad at the time, no, not altogether glad. Wars are bad things, and we want no more of them – but there is good in them for the lucky ones.’ ‘I believe you are right,’ says””

D.E. Stevenson

About This Quote

Source Short story: “The Major” from *The Merry Men* (1902)

War is generally terrible, yet some individuals may find personal benefit or relief from its existence

In simple terms: War is bad but can oddly help some people

Key Takeaway

Recognize that hardship can have unexpected positive effects for some

Themes

war human experience paradox

Mood

thoughtful somber

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • military service
  • personal trauma
  • post-war adjustment
  • ethical debate

Key Concepts

moral ambiguity psychology of conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ethical dilemmas arise when war benefits a few?
  • How do we balance collective harm with individual gain?
A Different Perspective

Not all suffering leads to growth; benefits may be limited and morally complex

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