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Happiness Quote by The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas Ursula K Le Guin

“As we did without clergy, let us do without soldiers. The joy built upon successful slaughter is not the right kind of joy; it will not do; it is fearful and it is trivial.” quote by The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas Ursula K Le Guin
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““As we did without clergy, let us do without soldiers. The joy built upon successful slaughter is not the right kind of joy; it will not do; it is fearful and it is trivial.””

The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas Ursula K Le Guin

About This Quote

Source Short story: “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” (1973)

The joy derived from violent conquest is shallow and fearsome; true joy should not rely on suffering.

In simple terms: Violence-based joy is shallow and frightening.

Key Takeaway

Seek joy that does not harm others.

Themes

morality war joy peace ethical happiness

Mood

reflective serious

Type

Happiness:1 Joy:1 War:1 Let Soldiers:0 Clergy Let:0 Joy Fearful:1 Soldiers Joy:0 Successful Slaughter:0

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • peace activism
  • educational curricula
  • personal ethics

Key Concepts

war ethics philosophical reflection human nature social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can joy exist without causing suffering?
  • What alternatives to violent triumph exist?
A Different Perspective

Joy from violence can desensitize and perpetuate harm.

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