Summary
This quote, often attributed to Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, reflects the ruthless nature of totalitarian regimes and highlights the apathy that can arise towards immense loss of life. It suggests that when faced with a single death, we are more likely to feel empathy and recognize the tragedy. However, as the number of casualties increases, the significance of each individual life diminishes, reducing them to mere statistics that can be easily rationalized and overlooked. The quote serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of desensitization and the importance of maintaining empathy towards all human lives.