Army Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Tobacco and opium have broad backs, and will cheerfully carry the load of armies, if you choose to make them pay high for such joy as they give and such harm as they do.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Self-Reliance, 1841
Addiction fuels economies and war, yet its cost to health and society is immense.
In simple terms: Addiction drives profit and conflict, harming people.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and reduce reliance on harmful substances.
Themes
addiction
economics
war
health
morality
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- public health campaigns
- military budgeting
- personal health decisions
- regulatory reform
Key Concepts
externalities
social cost
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does society balance economic gain with health risks?
- What alternatives can replace harmful habits?
A Different Perspective
Addiction can also provide personal escapism, complicating reform efforts.
![“I can't imagine that I would be asked that by the president-elect [Donald Trump], or then-president [Barack Obama]. But it's - I'm very clear. I voted for the change that put the Army Field Manual in place as a member of Congress. I understand that law very, very quickly and am also deeply aware…” quote by James Mattis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/761/james-mattis-9515_army_i-can-t-imagine-that-i-would-be-asked-th_3990.jpg)
