Projectile - n. the final arbiter in international disputes. Formerly these disputes were resolved by physical contact of the disputants with such arguments as the rudimentary logic of the times would supply - sword, spear, and so forth. With the growth of prudence in military affairs the projectile came more and more into favor, and is now held in high esteem by all. Its capital defect ( in Bierce's day ) has been that it requires personal attendance at the point of launch.

Summary

This quote reflects on the evolution of methods used to settle international disputes. In earlier times, conflicts were resolved through physical combat using weapons like swords and spears. However, as military strategies became more strategic, projectiles gained popularity as a means of settling disputes. Projectiles, such as arrows or bullets, were seen as a more advantageous approach. However, the limitation pointed out here is that these projectiles required personal presence and launching at the target, implying direct involvement in the act of violence.

Topics