“Better to have beasts that let themselves be killed than men who run away.”
- June 21, 1905 – April 15, 1980
- Born in France
- Philosopher, novelist, playwright
- He advocated existentialism and had a major influence on 20th century thought through works such as “Being and Nothingness” and “Nausea”
Quote
“Better to have beasts that let themselves be killed than men who run away.”
Explanation
In this quote, Sartre contrasts the qualities of courage and cowardice with a focus on self-sacrifice and honor. The first part, “better to have beasts that let themselves be killed,” suggests a preference for submissive or passive sacrifice—beasts, in this case, represent beings who accept their fate without resistance. While the use of “beasts” might seem to imply a certain level of impersonality, it can also be interpreted as a symbol of stoic acceptance—where the animal doesn’t challenge or run away from its fate. This idea could symbolize an idealized form of courage, where accepting one’s role or fate becomes a form of dignity.
On the other hand, the latter part, “than men who run away,” introduces the contrast of cowardice—men who flee from responsibility or danger rather than standing their ground. Sartre is suggesting that it is more honorable to face death or hardship with courage (even in the form of quiet acceptance) than to avoid confrontation or responsibility. In the context of Sartre’s existentialism, this statement could be seen as a reflection of the responsibility individuals must take for their own choices. To run away is to deny responsibility for one’s freedom and existence, while to face the inevitable—even through self-sacrifice—is to embrace authenticity and take ownership of one’s fate.
In modern contexts, this quote can be interpreted as a critique of cowardice in the face of ethical or moral responsibility, especially in situations of social injustice, war, or personal confrontation. It calls into question the bravery of those who avoid action or escape responsibility when faced with difficult moral choices. Sartre’s words encourage individuals to stand firm in the face of adversity, to act with integrity, and to accept responsibility for the consequences of their choices, rather than retreating into inaction or denial.
