Bombing Quote by Daniel Ellsberg
““Whether rightly or wrongly, we are the only country in the world that believes it won a war by bombing—specifically by bombing cities with weapons of mass destruction, firebombs, and atomic bombs—and believes that it was fully justified in doing so. It is a dangerous state of mind.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: 1985, The New York Times, “Ellsberg on War and Morality”
The quote warns that believing a nation’s bombing campaign is justified creates a dangerous mindset that can normalize extreme violence.
In simple terms: Thinking bombing is justified is dangerous.
Key Takeaway
Question national narratives about war.
Themes
war
morality
nationalism
ethics
politics
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- military training
- public discourse
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Just war theory
propaganda
psychology of denial
Questions to Reflect On
- How does justification affect public support for war?
- What alternatives exist to punitive bombing?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook civilian suffering and long‑term consequences.
