It was taught that this highest morality was only applicable to private life ...but that in public life all forms of violence, such as imprisonment, executions, and wars -might be used for the protection of the majority against a minority of evildoers, though such means were diametrically opposed to any vestige of love.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Tolstoy criticizes the idea that love applies only to private life while violence is accepted in public life.
- In plain terms
- People say love is for home but accept violence for government and war.
- What can you take from it?
- You cannot claim to love peace while accepting state violence.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is violence ever justified for protection?
- Do you accept state violence?
Another view
It dismisses the need for security and order in society.
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