Walter Bagehot: 'Conquest is the missionary of valor, and the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world.'

Conquest is the missionary of valor, and the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world.

Walter Bagehot, a prominent English journalist and essayist, once wrote, "Conquest is the missionary of valor, and the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world." In this powerful and thought-provoking quote, Bagehot captures the transformative nature of conquest and how it can shape society by exalting courage and diminishing the vices of pettiness and selfishness. At first glance, this quote appears to glorify warfare and its accompanying military virtues. However, delving deeper into its meaning unveils a fascinating and unexpected philosophical concept: the paradoxical relationship between destruction and the cultivation of noble traits.On the surface, Bagehot's statement might suggest that through the process of conquest, valor is spread like a missionary, influencing individuals to exhibit bravery and honor. The notion of "missionary" implies the intended purpose of conversion, not only of territory but also of values and virtues. The "hard impact" of military virtues, forged in the crucible of combat, is portrayed as a force capable of eradicating mean-spiritedness from the world. This interpretation aligns with conventional wisdom surrounding martial endeavors, which often elicit acts of heroism and selflessness in the face of adversity.However, a closer examination of Bagehot's quote reveals a more nuanced perspective. It invites us to question whether conquest, with its destructive nature and inherent violence, is truly necessary to promote valor and eradicate meanness. This idea sparks a captivating contrast between the negative consequences of conquest and the positive behavioral changes it may inspire. Is the cost of war and its casualties justifiable for the advent of valor and the elimination of meanness?It is essential to tread carefully when discussing such a sensitive topic, recognizing the sheer tragedy and human suffering that arise from armed conflicts. Nevertheless, exploring the philosophical underpinnings of Bagehot's statement allows us to unravel the complexities of human nature and the potential for growth in the face of adversity. Can we, as a society, find alternative paths to foster courage and eliminate meanness without resorting to conquest?One argument asserts that the transformative power of valor need not always be derived from warfare and conquest. History has shown countless examples of individuals who exemplify bravery, honor, and selflessness without engaging in violent acts. These are the heroes who emerge in times of crisis, demonstrating astounding courage and resilience amid turmoil. Their influence can be just as potent, if not more so, than that of military virtues birthed in the crucible of conquest. These non-conquest-based virtues have the potential to transcend the boundaries of conflict and inspire positive change on a broader scale.Perhaps Bagehot's quote serves not as an endorsement of conquest itself but as a commentary on the transformative potential inherent in the face of adversity. By highlighting the contrast between the destructive nature of conquest and the beauty that emerges from valor, we can begin to question the glorification of warfare and examine alternative avenues for promoting and cultivating noble virtues.In conclusion, Walter Bagehot's quote, "Conquest is the missionary of valor, and the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world," encapsulates the paradoxical relationship between destruction and the cultivation of noble traits. While it appears to praise the transformative power of conquest and its military virtues, a deeper analysis invites us to question the necessity of violence as a catalyst for personal growth and the eradication of meanness. Exploring alternative paths to foster valor and eliminate meanness may offer a broader perspective on the complexities of human nature and our capacity for growth.