Able Quote by Howard Zinn
“War is by definition the indiscriminate killing of huge numbers of people for ends that are uncertain. Think about means and ends, and apply it to war. The means are horrible, certainly. The ends, uncertain. That alone should make you hesitate. . . . We are smart in so many ways. Surely, we should be able to understand that in between war and passivity, there are a thousand possibilities.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A People's History of the United States, Howard Zinn, 1980
War’s means are horrific and its goals uncertain, urging caution before endorsing conflict.
In simple terms: War kills many, goals unclear, so be wary.
Key Takeaway
Question the purpose before supporting war.
Themes
ethics
politics
violence
uncertainty
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- military planning
- peace activism
- public discourse
Key Concepts
just war theory
human cost
strategic ambiguity
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria should limit war?
- How do we balance security and morality?
A Different Perspective
War can be justified by perceived necessity despite moral doubts.
