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About this quote

What does it mean?
The logic of self-preservation in war implies a willingness to see others die.
In plain terms
If you want to live, you want others to die.
What can you take from it?
Survival often depends on the sacrifice of others.

Where it applies

  • discussing combat ethics
  • analyzing wartime decisions
  • reflecting on fear

Putting it to work

  • evaluating moral costs of survival
  • discussing war ethics

Questions to consider

  • Is it possible to survive without wishing others harm?
  • How do you justify your survival?

Another view

It ignores cases where survival doesn't require harming others.

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