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Civic virtue Quote by Heinlein Robert A

“You. What is the moral difference, if any, between the soldier and the civilian?" "The difference," I answered carefully, "lies in the field of civic virtue. A soldier accepts personal responsibility for the safety of the body politic of which he is a member, defending it, if need be, with his…” quote by Heinlein Robert A
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““You. What is the moral difference, if any, between the soldier and the civilian?" "The difference," I answered carefully, "lies in the field of civic virtue. A soldier accepts personal responsibility for the safety of the body politic of which he is a member, defending it, if need be, with his life. The civilian does not.””

Heinlein Robert A

About This Quote

Source Novel: Starship Troopers, 1959

Soldiers embody civic virtue by risking life for the community, unlike civilians who lack that direct responsibility.

In simple terms: Soldiers accept personal responsibility for society.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the civic duty of defense.

Themes

civic virtue military responsibility ethics

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • Military service
  • community volunteering
  • public service
  • political debate

Key Concepts

Social contract civic duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do civilians hold?
  • How does civic virtue manifest beyond the battlefield?
A Different Perspective

Civilians also contribute to civic virtue in other ways.

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