Skip to content

Capital punishment Quote by George Bernard Shaw

“Murder and capital punishment are not opposites that cancel one another, but similars that breed their kind. It is the deed that teaches not the name we give it.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
Download Open image
“Murder and capital punishment are not opposites that cancel one another, but similars that breed their kind. It is the deed that teaches not the name we give it.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

Source Play: "The Devil's Disciple", 1897

The quote argues that punishment and murder are similar, both perpetuating violence; the act matters more than its label.

In simple terms: Violence breeds more violence.

Key Takeaway

Focus on actions, not names.

Themes

justice violence morality

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

dramatic ethical

When to use this quote

  • legal reform
  • conflict mediation
  • education

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions reduce cycles of violence?
  • Can language change outcomes?
A Different Perspective

It may oversimplify complex legal and moral distinctions.

2.3 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by George Bernard Shaw

Explore all 1,640 George Bernard Shaw quotes

More Capital punishment quotes

Browse all 209 Capital punishment quotes