Army Quote by John Tiffany
“I've never understood why anyone would want to join the army, but that's irrelevant. The fact of the matter is that, as long as we go on voting in governments who are prepared to take troops into an illegal war, that army is a necessity.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Political Commentary, 2023
The army persists because governments choose to wage illegal wars, making it a necessary institution despite moral objections.
In simple terms: Armies exist because governments wage illegal wars.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the political role of militaries.
Themes
politics
military
ethics
war
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- policy debate
- peace activism
Key Concepts
state power
legitimacy
civil responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance moral opposition to war with security needs?
- What alternatives to a standing army exist?
A Different Perspective
Armies may also protect against external threats.
![“I can't imagine that I would be asked that by the president-elect [Donald Trump], or then-president [Barack Obama]. But it's - I'm very clear. I voted for the change that put the Army Field Manual in place as a member of Congress. I understand that law very, very quickly and am also deeply aware…” quote by James Mattis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/761/james-mattis-9515_army_i-can-t-imagine-that-i-would-be-asked-th_3990.jpg)
