Conquer Quote by Joseph Conrad
““They were conquerors, and for that you want only brute force—nothing to boast of, when you have it, since your strength is just an accident arising from the weakness of others. They grabbed what they could get for the sake of what was to be got. It was just robbery with violence, aggravated murder on a great scale, and men going at it blind—as is very proper for those who tackle a darkness. The conquest of the earth, which mostly means the taking it away from those who have a different complexion or slightly flatter noses than ourselves, is not a pretty thing when you look into it too much. What redeems it is the idea only. An idea at the back of it; not a sentimental pretence but an idea; and an unselfish belief in the idea—something you can set up, and bow down before, and offer a sacrifice to…””
About This Quote
Conquest is often justified by lofty ideas, yet its reality is violent exploitation driven by opportunistic power grabs.
In simple terms: Ideas mask brutal, opportunistic conquest.
Key Takeaway
Ideology can conceal violent exploitation.
Themes
colonialism
power
ideology
Mood
cynical
analytical
Type
historical analysis
philosophical
When to use this quote
- imperial wars framed as civilizing missions
- corporate takeovers under the guise of progress
- political revolutions with hidden economic motives
Key Concepts
moral justification
historical critique
Practical Applications
- critically examine stated motives behind expansion
- promote equitable resource sharing
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we differentiate noble ideals from self‑interest?
- What mechanisms can prevent exploitation under ideological cover?
A Different Perspective
Some conquests have resulted in genuine cultural exchange and development.
![“He is hailed a conqueror of conquerors. [Lat., Victor victorum cluet.]” quote by Plautus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1ac/plautus-1263_conqueror_he-is-hailed-a-conqueror-of-conquerors-l_1330587.jpg)
