Asked Quote by W. H. Auden
“To save your world you asked this man to die; would this man, could he see you now, ask why?”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Unknown Citizen” (hypothetical source), 1939
The speaker questions whether sacrificing one life for the greater good is justified if the sacrificed individual remains unaware of the purpose.
In simple terms: Questioning the morality of sacrificing a person for a cause they don’t understand.
Key Takeaway
Consider the ethics of using others for a cause.
Themes
morality
sacrifice
knowledge
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- war
- political activism
- social movements
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
human agency
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it right to sacrifice someone without their consent?
- What responsibilities do we have to inform those we sacrifice?
