Absurdity Quote by H. G. Wells
“Armament should be an illegality everywhere, and some sort of international force should patrol a treaty-bound world. Partial armament is one of those absurdities dear to moderate-minded 'reasonable' men. Armament itself is making war. Making a gun, pointing a gun, and firing it are all acts of the same order. It should be illegal to construct anywhere upon earth any mechanism for the specific purpose of killing men. When you see a gun it is reasonable to ask: 'Whom is that intended to kill?'”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Open Conspiracy, 1928
Advocates total prohibition of weapons and a global enforcement body to prevent war.
In simple terms: Weapons should be illegal everywhere, enforced by an international force.
Key Takeaway
Support global disarmament and enforce it.
Themes
peace
disarmament
global governance
war
ethics
Mood
urgent
determined
idealistic
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- international treaties
- UN peacekeeping
- national legislation
- civil society advocacy
Key Concepts
non‑violence
collective security
legal frameworks
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms could ensure compliance?
- How would you address self‑defense concerns?
A Different Perspective
Enforcing total disarmament may be impractical given existing arsenals and political resistance.
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