Ambition Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“Every ambitious would-be empire, clarions it abroad that she is conquering the world to bring it peace, security and freedom, and it is sacrificing her sons only for the most noble and humanitarian purposes. That is a lie; and it is an ancient lie, yet generations still rise and believe it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Civil Disobedience, 1849
The claim that war brings peace and freedom is a false justification that masks the true costs of conflict.
In simple terms: War is often justified with noble rhetoric that hides its suffering.
Key Takeaway
Question the moral narratives used to justify war.
Themes
war
peace
morality
politics
history
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political speeches
- military recruitment
- public debates
- education curricula
Key Concepts
Just war theory
propaganda
human cost
Questions to Reflect On
- What alternative ways can societies achieve peace without war?
- How does rhetoric shape public support for conflict?
A Different Perspective
The quote overlooks the complexities of security and the potential necessity of defense.
