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Behalf Quote by Michel Foucault

“Wars are no longer waged in the name of a sovereign who must be defended; they are waged on behalf of the existence of everyone; entire populations are mobilized for the purpose of wholesale slaughter in the name of life necessity: massacres have become vital.” quote by Michel Foucault
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“Wars are no longer waged in the name of a sovereign who must be defended; they are waged on behalf of the existence of everyone; entire populations are mobilized for the purpose of wholesale slaughter in the name of life necessity: massacres have become vital.”

Michel Foucault

About This Quote

War now targets entire populations under the guise of necessity, turning mass killing into a vital act.

In simple terms: War targets masses as essential.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the dehumanizing rhetoric of modern warfare.

Themes

war violence society

Mood

critical somber

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • human rights advocacy
  • military strategy
  • media critique

Key Concepts

power ethics mass mobilization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language shape our perception of war?
  • What alternatives exist to collective violence?
A Different Perspective

Such framing can obscure accountability and moral judgment.

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