Quote by Bertrand Russell
In the Second World War he took no public part, having escaped to a neutral country just before its outbreak. In private conversation he was wont to say that homicidal lunatics were well employed in killing each other, but that sensible men would keep out of their way while they were doing it. Fortunately this outlook, which is reminiscent of Bentham, has become rare in this age, which recognizes that heroism has a value independent of its utility. The Last Survivor of a Dead Epoch
Summary
This quote describes a person who chose not to actively participate in World War II by escaping to a neutral country. Privately, this person believed that it was best for rational individuals to avoid the destructive actions of others and let them eliminate themselves. However, the quote also implies that this perspective, reminiscent of philosopher Bentham, is no longer prevalent in modern times. The quote suggests that society now recognizes the inherent value of heroism, regardless of its practical utility. It portrays the individual as a representation of an outdated era, perhaps emphasizing a shift in societal values.
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