A 'pacifist male' is a contradiction in terms. Most self-described 'pacifists' are not pacific; they simply assume false colors. When the wind changes, they hoist the Jolly Roger.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Heinlein claims true pacifism is rare and that many who claim it will abandon it when circumstances change.
- In plain terms
- Most people who say they are pacifists will fight if conditions change.
- What can you take from it?
- Claims of pacifism often shift with the times.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can pacifism be tested?
- What defines true belief?
Another view
True pacifists exist and maintain their stance regardless of context.
More from Robert A. Heinlein
A 'critic' is a man who creates nothing and thereby feels qualified to judge the work of creative men. There is logic in this; he is unbiased - he hates all cr…
Permalink to quote #42 A brute kills for pleasure. A fool kills from hate.
Permalink to quote #44 $100 placed at 7 percent interest compounded quarterly for 200 years will increase to more than $100,000,000 - by which time it will be worth nothing.
Permalink to quote #41
Related quotes
'Being a pacifist between wars is as easy as being a vegetarian between meals.'
Ammon HennesseyAmmon Hennessey quote #2 I have lived in Germany and know its language and literature, and the spirit and ideals of its rulers. Having given many years to a study of American capitalis…
Upton SinclairUpton Sinclair quote #4 It is not much to be able to do violence when you have been simply preparing for it for years and when violence is more natural to you than thinking. It is a g…
Albert CamusAlbert Camus quote #163