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We have known the bitterness of defeat and the exultation of triumph, and from both we have learned there can be no turning back. We must go forward to preserve in peace what we won in war. A new era is upon us. Even the lesson of victory itself brings with it profound concern, both for our future security and the survival of civilization. The destructiveness of the war potential, through progressive advances in scientific discovery, has in fact now reached a point which revises the traditional concepts of war.

Douglas MacArthur#14

WarPeaceDefenseFutureScienceWarfare

About this quote

What does it mean?
MacArthur warns that the nature of war has changed due to scientific advances. He argues we must move forward to preserve peace despite the increased destructiveness.
In plain terms
War is more destructive now, so we must preserve peace carefully.
What can you take from it?
Advances in science require new concepts for war and peace.

Where it applies

  • strategic speech
  • post-war address
  • policy review

Putting it to work

  • policy planning
  • strategic thinking

Questions to consider

  • How do we adapt to new wars?
  • What does victory cost?

Another view

It assumes that forward momentum is always the correct path.

More from Douglas MacArthur

  1. Today the guns are silent. A great tragedy has ended. A great victory has been won. The skies no longer rain with death - the seas bear only commerce - men eve…

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  2. Men since the beginning of time have sought peace. Various methods through the ages have been attempted to devise an international process to prevent or settle…

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  3. The Puerto Ricans forming the ranks of the gallant 65th Infantry on the battlefields of Korea:are writing a brilliant record of achievement in battle and I am …

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