Between nations, where the consequences are vital, where the destiny of countries and provinces hangs in the balance, the lives and fortunes of millions are affected and civilization itself is menaced, the most upright men honestly believe that there is no depth of duplicity to which they may not legitimately stoop. They have got to do it. The thing cannot go on without the help of lies. This is no plea that lies should not be used in war-time, but a demonstration of how lies must be used in war-time. If the truth were told from the outset, there would be no reason and no will for war. Anyone declaring the truth: 'Whether you are right or wrong, whether you win or lose, in no circumstances can war help you or your country,' would find himself in gaol very quickly. In war-time, failure to lie is negligence, the doubting of a lie a misdemeanour, the declaration of the truth a crime.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- In war, lies are seen as necessary to motivate nations and hide the truth, otherwise war would lack support.
- In plain terms
- War uses lies to keep people willing to fight.
- What can you take from it?
- Truthful statements can undermine war effort.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is deception ever justified in war?
- How does propaganda affect public conscience?
Another view
It assumes that all societies accept deception, ignoring ethical opposition.
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