Has beens Quote by Rebecca West
“... there has never been a period in history when there have been necessary killings which has not been instantly followed by a period when there have been unnecessary killings.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Meaning of the War, 1939
War cycles between justified and unjustified violence, each leading to the next.
In simple terms: War alternates necessary and unnecessary killings.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and break the cycle of violence.
Themes
war
violence
history
ethics
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political decisions
- military interventions
- social upheaval
- post‑war reconstruction
Key Concepts
justification
moral relativism
cycle of conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- How do societies decide what killings are necessary?
- Can the cycle be interrupted?
A Different Perspective
The distinction between necessary and unnecessary killings is often contested.
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