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There are historic situations in which refusal to defend the inheritance of a civilization, however imperfect, against tyranny and aggression may result in consequences even worse than war.
Reinhold Niebuhr
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Defending civilization is crucial, even with its flaws, to prevent greater evils.

Reinhold Niebuhr's quote emphasizes the importance of standing up for the values and heritage of a civilization, despite its imperfections. It suggests that in situations of tyranny and aggression, failing to defend one’s civilization could lead to dire consequences that may surpass the horrors of war itself, highlighting the need for moral courage and responsibility even in difficult circumstances.

Themes

CivilizationTyrannyDefenseInjusticeCourage

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of defending democratic values.

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Religion is so frequently a source of confusion in political life, and so frequently dangerous to democracy, precisely because it introduces absolutes into the realm of relative values.
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Forgiveness is the final form of love.
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God, give me grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed.
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