"To delight in war is a merit in the soldier, a dangerous quality in the captain, and a positive crime in the statesman"

This quote by George Santayana speaks with the various functions of those associated with war. For a soldier, delighting in war is a benefit, as it shows their interest and dedication to their cause. Nevertheless, for a captain, enjoying war is a harmful quality, as it can result in negligent choices and put their troops in threat. Finally, for a statesman, delighting in war is a positive criminal offense, as it shows a neglect for the lives of their citizens and a willingness to use war as a tool for their own gain. This quote serves as a suggestion that those associated with war must take their functions seriously and not get a kick out of the damage and death that war brings.