“It is not truth that matters, but victory.”
- April 20, 1889 – April 30, 1945
- Born in the Austro-Hungarian Empire
- Political leader of Nazi Germany
- As the leader of the Nazi Party, he caused World War II and led the Holocaust (the persecution and genocide of European Jews)
table of contents
Quote
“It is not truth that matters, but victory.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Adolf Hitler’s view that success and power are the ultimate measures of worth, regardless of the moral or factual correctness of the means used to achieve them. In his perspective, truth is secondary to the achievement of goals, particularly when it comes to the expansion of power. This perspective reveals the deeply pragmatic and ruthless nature of Nazi ideology, where the pursuit of national greatness and dominance through military conquest was deemed more important than ethical considerations or the factual truth of the actions taken. The idea of victory at all costs disregards the devastating consequences for those who are harmed in the process, justifying even the most extreme actions as long as they lead to success.
Historically, this mindset was central to the Nazi regime’s actions. Hitler and his followers used propaganda to create a narrative that justified their actions, regardless of the truth. The invasions of other countries, the persecution of Jews and other minorities, and the Holocaust were all justified under the banner of securing Germany’s future and restoring its former glory. The Nazi leadership was not concerned with the morality or truth of their policies, but with achieving military and political success, which was seen as the ultimate validation of their cause. This disregard for truth led to some of the most horrific atrocities in history.
In the modern world, this quote serves as a dangerous reminder of the risks of pragmatism over truth. While political or military victories can be seen as a measure of success, the idea that truth does not matter can lead to the justification of injustice, violence, and corruption. It is crucial for societies to recognize that ethical principles, justice, and human rights should always guide decision-making, not just the desire for power or success. Promoting the value of truth, transparency, and accountability in leadership helps ensure that societies remain grounded in integrity and are protected from the kinds of manipulation and propaganda that Hitler used to gain and maintain power.
