Battles, in these ages, are transacted by mechanism; with the slightest possible development of human individuality or spontaneity: men now even die, and kill one another, in an artificial manner.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Warfare has become mechanized and impersonal, reducing human agency and spontaneity in conflict.
- In plain terms
- Modern battles are fought by machines rather than human will.
- What can you take from it?
- Technology can strip humanity from conflict.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does technology change the nature of bravery?
- Is impersonal combat more or less ethical?
Another view
The quote may overlook individual courage that still exists within mechanized systems.
More from Thomas Carlyle
O poor mortals, how ye make this earth bitter for each other.
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