“War is evil, but it is often the lesser evil.”
- 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
“War is evil, but it is often the lesser evil.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell acknowledges the inherent evil of war, yet he also concedes that, in certain circumstances, war might be necessary as a lesser evil when compared to alternative actions. Orwell suggests that while war is destructive and morally reprehensible, there are situations where it may be the only viable option to prevent even greater harm, such as the rise of totalitarian regimes or acts of extreme aggression. This reflects the complexity of ethical decisions in wartime, where choosing the lesser evil is often fraught with moral ambiguity.
Orwell’s own experiences during the Spanish Civil War and his opposition to fascism deeply shaped his perspective on war. As a participant in the conflict, Orwell witnessed firsthand the brutality of war and the suffering it caused, yet he also saw the fight against fascism as a moral necessity. His anti-totalitarian stance, particularly in works like 1984 and Animal Farm, underscores his belief that, in some cases, fighting against oppressive regimes might be more justifiable than allowing them to spread unchecked. This quote can be seen as a reflection of his wartime experiences and his broader political philosophy that often required difficult choices between competing evils.
In modern contexts, this idea continues to resonate. Wars, such as those fought in defense of democratic values or to counteract aggression and human rights abuses, are often viewed as tragic but necessary actions in the face of larger threats. However, the moral justification of war remains a deeply debated topic, with critics arguing that diplomacy and non-violent solutions should always be pursued first. Yet, Orwell’s quote serves as a reminder that, in some historical moments, war, despite its horrors, may be the last line of defense against even greater atrocities.
