Approach Quote by Philip Gourevitch
“A serious pacifist approach can't win wars against enemies whose only program is violence. That doesn't mean I think the US has fought terrorists so wisely most of the time since 9/11. But there are some enemies that need to be destroyed by force lest they destroy much much more.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2012
Violence be be necessary against foes whose sole strategy is aggression, but pacifism alone cannot defeat them.
In simple terms: Sometimes force is required against violent enemies.
Key Takeaway
Use force when necessary, but seek peaceful solutions first.
Themes
war
ethics
violence
pacifism
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- military intervention
- counterterrorism
- policy making
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
realpolitik
moral dilemma
strategic necessity
Questions to Reflect On
- When is violence justified?
- What alternatives exist to force?
A Different Perspective
Relying on force can perpetuate cycles of violence.
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