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I do not approve the extermination of the enemy; the policy of exterminating or, as it is barbarously said, liquidating enemies, is one of the most alarming developments of modern war and peace, from the point of view of those who desire the survival
T. S. Eliot
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote critiques the brutal practices of exterminating enemies in warfare, highlighting the moral implications.

T. S. Eliot expresses deep concern about the trend of exterminating enemies in modern warfare, which reflects broader issues surrounding morality, humanity, and the very essence of survival. He suggests that this approach is not only barbaric but also indicative of a troubling shift in the values governing conflicts and peace, urging a reconsideration of how we view our adversaries and the ethics of warfare.

Themes

WarPeaceMoralityExterminationSurvival

In practice

Example use cases

During a debate on the ethics of military strategies, this quote can serve as a critical viewpoint.

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