Belief Quote by George Orwell
“We believe half-instinctively that evil always defeats itself in the long run. Pacifism is founded largely on this belief. Don't resist evil, and it will somehow destroy itself. But why should it? What evidence is there that it does... unless conquered from the outside by military force?”
About This Quote
The belief that evil will self‑destruct leads to pacifism, but the speaker questions its validity without external force.
In simple terms: Evil may not self‑destruct without action.
Key Takeaway
Question pacifist assumptions.
Themes
ethics
conflict
politics
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political activism
- peace movements
- military strategy
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
pacifism
Questions to Reflect On
- Is non‑violence always effective?
- When is force justified?
A Different Perspective
Overlooks complex power dynamics.
