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About this quote

What does it mean?
A non-combatant is called a dead Quaker, implying pacifists die quickly in war.
In plain terms
Non-fighters get killed easily in war.
What can you take from it?
Pacifism is dangerous in violent conflicts.

Where it applies

  • war
  • pacifist ideals

Putting it to work

  • understanding war realities

Questions to consider

  • Can you survive war without fighting?
  • Is pacifism practical?

Another view

It oversimplifies the role of non-combatants.

More from Ambrose Bierce

  1. Neighbor, n. One whom we are commanded to love as ourselves, and who does all he knows how to make us disobedient.

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  2. Ocean, n. A body of water occupying about two-thirds of a world made for man -- who has no gills.

    Permalink to quote #62
  3. Monday, n. In Christian countries, the day after the baseball game.

    Permalink to quote #59

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