"Many a man will have the courage to die gallantly, but will not have the courage to say, or even to think, that the cause for which he is asked to die is an unworthy one"
- Bertrand Russell
About this Quote
This quote by Bertrand Russell talks to the idea that people are typically ready to compromise their lives for a cause, but might not want to admit that the cause is not a worthy one. This speaks to the power of patriotism and commitment, as individuals are typically going to put their lives on the line for something they believe in, even if it is not always a good cause. It also talks to the power of peer pressure and the requirement to comply with societal standards, as people may hesitate to speak up against a cause, even if they do not think in it. This quote is a tip that we should always be willing to question the causes we are asked to combat for, and to believe critically about the choices we make.
About the Author