Argument Quote by Michael Hastings
“The humanitarian argument is so selective I find it difficult to swallow. It's not even so much about the choice as to where we should get involved and where we shouldn't.”
About This Quote
The speaker critiques the selective nature of humanitarianism, questioning the criteria for intervention and the moral inconsistency of choosing some crises over others.
In simple terms: Selective humanitarianism is morally problematic.
Key Takeaway
Humanitarian choices are often inconsistent.
Themes
ethics
politics
humanitarianism
moral philosophy
social responsibility
Mood
critical
reflective
skeptical
Type
observation
critique
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- NGO funding decisions
- public opinion on foreign aid
- media coverage of crises
Key Concepts
selectivity
intervention criteria
moral inconsistency
Practical Applications
- guiding aid allocation
- shaping advocacy strategies
Questions to Reflect On
- What standards should determine humanitarian involvement?
- How can we reduce bias in crisis response?
![“[It is important] to have stability and to have security, which means humanitarian equals fighting terrorists. You cannot talk about humanitarian aid and supporting the terrorists at the same time. You cannot, you have to choose.” quote by Bashar al-Assad](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c33/bashar-al-assad-1027_aids_it-is-important-to-have-stability-and-to_110406.jpg)
