Children Quote by Joseph Heller
““Yossarian marveled that children could suffer such barbaric sacrifice without evincing the slightest hint of fear or pain. He took for granted that they did submit so stoically. If not, he reasoned, the custom would certainly have died, for no craving for wealth or immortality could be so great, he felt, as to subsist on the sorrow of children.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Catch‑22 by Joseph Heller, 1961
Children’s suffering is normalized by society, making it invisible and accepted without moral alarm.
In simple terms: Society hides the pain of children, treating it as normal.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question hidden suffering.
Themes
morality
war
innocence
societal norms
psychology
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- war reporting
- child welfare policy
- education curricula
- media coverage
Key Concepts
dehumanization
collective denial
ethical blindness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does society become complicit in children's suffering?
- What can individuals do to expose hidden cruelty?
A Different Perspective
The quote assumes children are passive, ignoring their agency and resistance.
