The Services in war time are fit only for desperadoes but, in peace, are fit only for fools.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Military forces are suited for reckless individuals during war and incompetent ones during peace.
- In plain terms
- Soldiers are dangerous in war because they are wild, and useless in peace because they are stupid.
- What can you take from it?
- Question the societal role of military institutions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is the role of the military in peace?
- Are military values compatible with civilian life?
Another view
It ignores the potential for armies to provide stability or humanitarian aid.
More from Benjamin Disraeli
The microcosm of a public school.
Permalink to quote #83 Beware of endeavouring to become a great man in a hurry. One such attempt in ten thousand may succeed: these are fearful odds.
Permalink to quote #85 The fool wonders, the wise man asks.
Permalink to quote #82
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