Absolutes Quote by Norman Mailer
“We have an absolute right in a democracy to argue about a war.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Debate on War, 1970s, United States
In a democracy, citizens are entitled to openly discuss and critique war policies.
In simple terms: Democracy allows war debate.
Key Takeaway
Exercise your right to question war decisions.
Themes
democracy
free speech
war
citizen rights
Mood
thoughtful
engaged
Type
political
activist
When to use this quote
- town hall meetings
- journalist panels
- online forums
- policy debates
Key Concepts
political theory
civil discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance patriotism with criticism?
- What responsibilities come with this right?
A Different Perspective
Debate can become hostile and polarizing.
![“[Norm said,] 'To all those who argue this war is a mistake, I'd like to point out that we've removed from power one of history's most ruthless and belligerent tyrants. A man who cold-bloodedly murdered thousands of his own people. Who built palaces for his personal pleasure while schools decayed…” quote by Ben Fountain](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9e9/ben-fountain-3198_bush_norm-said-to-all-those-who-argue-this-wa_3195967.jpg)
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
