“People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”
- June 25, 1903 – January 21, 1950
- Born in India during the British colonial period
- Author, journalist
- Through his representative works “1984” and “Animal Farm,” he presented sharp criticism of totalitarianism and the abuse of power, greatly influencing contemporary literature and thought.
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Quote
“People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell highlights the paradox of peace and security in society, suggesting that the comfort and safety that many people enjoy are made possible by the violence and force employed by others. The “rough men” Orwell refers to are those who are willing to engage in the use of force—whether through the military, police, or other forms of enforcement—to protect the general population from external or internal threats. While these “rough men” may be seen as agents of violence, Orwell’s point is that their actions enable others to live without experiencing the brutality of conflict directly. In essence, while most people live peaceful lives, this peace is a product of the hidden violence done on their behalf by those who confront danger and chaos.
Orwell’s perspective on this issue is shaped by his own political experiences, particularly his disillusionment with authoritarian regimes and his awareness of the inequities of power. In works like 1984 and Animal Farm, Orwell critiques how power is often maintained by violence or the threat of violence, and how the state manipulates and controls individuals by controlling the use of force. While Orwell acknowledges that force can maintain peace, he also warns of the dangers when power becomes concentrated in the hands of those who wield violence without accountability.
This idea remains highly relevant in modern discussions about state violence, militarization, and social security. Whether through police forces, militaries, or private security firms, the fact remains that the peace many individuals experience is often maintained by others who are tasked with using force to uphold order. Orwell’s quote challenges us to reflect on the moral and practical consequences of this reliance on force, asking us to consider whether true peace can ever be achieved when it is built on the willingness of some to use violence for the protection of others.
