Greatest generation Quote by Howard Zinn
““The Greatest Generation? They tell me I am a member of the greatest generation. That's because I saw combat duty as a bombardier in World War 11. But I refuse to celebrate "the greatest generation" because in so doing we are celebrating courage and sacrifice in the cause of war. And we are miseducating the young to believe that military heroism is the noblest form of heroism, when it should be remembered only as the tragic accompaniment of horrendous policies driven by power and profit. The current infatuation with World War 11 prepares us--innocently on the part of some, deliberately on the part of others--for more war, more military adventures, more attempts to emulate the military heroes of the past.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Great Society? (hypothetical), 2020
He critiques glorifying past wars, warning that celebrating military heroism perpetuates future conflict and misleads youth.
In simple terms: Celebrating war heroes can inspire more wars and false values.
Key Takeaway
Question the narrative that glorifies war.
Themes
war
heroism
history
education
politics
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- public speeches
- media analysis
- policy debates
- family discussions
Key Concepts
ethics
memory
propaganda
peace
Questions to Reflect On
- How does glorifying war affect peace efforts?
- What alternative values can be taught?
A Different Perspective
Some may view past sacrifices as essential for freedom.
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