Conditions Quote by George Bernard Shaw
“There was only one virtue, pugnacity; only one vice, pacifism. That is an essential condition of war.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Man and Superman, 1905
War demands aggressiveness; pacifism undermines survival in conflict.
In simple terms: War needs boldness; peace is weak.
Key Takeaway
Embrace assertiveness in conflict.
Themes
war
aggression
morality
virtue
vice
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- military strategy
- political debate
- personal conflict
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
Realpolitik
ethical paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- Is aggression always justified in war?
- When is pacifism a virtue?
A Different Perspective
Pacifism can be morally commendable in non‑violent contexts.
