Bin laden Quote by T.R. Wallace
““Is killing a known terrorist wrong? I ask this, did the terrorist allow any of his victims quarter? No, then allow him no quarter, and hoist the black flag.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Ethics of Conflict, 2009
If a terrorist shows no mercy, responding with no mercy is justified as a moral stance.
In simple terms: Reciprocity in war ethics.
Key Takeaway
Consider proportional response.
Themes
war ethics
justice
revenge
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- military policy
- legal tribunals
- peace negotiations
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
reciprocity
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Is retaliation always ethical?
- What alternatives exist to endless conflict?
A Different Perspective
Violence can perpetuate cycles of hatred.
![“[to Navy SEALs] Quite frankly, I didn't even want to use you guys, with your dip and velcro and all your gear bullshit. I wanted to drop a bomb. But people didn't believe in this lead enough to drop a bomb. So they're using you guys as canaries. And, in theory, if bin Laden isn't there, you can…” quote by Mark Owen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/12a/mark-owen-41650_bin-laden_to-navy-seals-quite-frankly-i-didn-t-eve_19993.jpg)
