George Orwell (1903-1950) English writer [pseud. of Eric Arthur Blair]

Those who "abjure" violence can only do so because others are committing violence on their behalf.

¶ "Notes on Nationalism" Polemic, (Oct. 1945)

Commonly misquoted as "People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf" (which phrase is not found in Orwell's works). Source essay.

Added 14-May-2004 | Last update 16-Aug-2007
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