Voltaire: 'It is forbidden to kill; therefore all murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets.'

It is forbidden to kill; therefore all murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets.

In this blog article, we will dive into the meaning and importance of Voltaire's intriguing quote, "It is forbidden to kill; therefore all murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets." At first glance, this quote may appear both shocking and paradoxical, implying that certain murderers can escape justice under particular circumstances. However, beneath the surface, it offers a critical reflection on the nature of power, perception, and societal values.To grasp the essence of Voltaire's quote, we must begin by understanding its straightforward meaning. In essence, the quote suggests that killing is generally considered a forbidden act, and those who commit murder are typically punished. However, it introduces a caveat: if murderers kill on a large scale and in a manner with great fanfare, as symbolized by the sound of trumpets, they often elude punishment. This seemingly contradictory statement criticizes the selective judgment of society, where the magnitude and circumstances surrounding a crime can influence the outcome of justice.A thought-provoking concept to introduce here is the philosophical idea of moral relativism. This concept, established by the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, challenges the absolute nature of morality and suggests that moral judgments are subjective and context-dependent. This viewpoint holds that moral values and beliefs differ among individuals, cultures, and historical periods. By considering moral relativism in the context of Voltaire's quote, we can explore the underlying dynamics that shape the distinction between right and wrong, good and evil.In the realm of moral relativism, the interpretation of Voltaire's quote takes a different path. It suggests that societal values and norms are not fixed and can be influenced by power, perception, and propaganda. When murderers commit acts of violence on a large scale accompanied by the ostentation of trumpets, they essentially exploit the manipulation of perception to sway public opinion. Consequently, the magnitude and grandeur of their actions overshadow the moral judgment society would otherwise impose on individual murderers.This raises concerns about the role of power in shaping perceptions and the manipulation of truth. History has demonstrated numerous instances where leaders, motivated by political gain or ideological fervor, have exploited mass-scale violence for their benefit. By orchestrating wars, genocides, or acts of terror on a grand stage, these individuals can evade accountability, as the world becomes engrossed in the spectacle. Voltaire's words remind us that the combination of power, pomp, and propaganda can obscure the moral clarity we expect from the justice system.Moreover, Voltaire's quote encourages us to question the consistency of societal values and ethical standards. It highlights the arbitrary nature of punishment and the double standards that may exist when dealing with certain types of violence. By drawing attention to this contradiction, Voltaire urges us to reevaluate our judgments and recognize the need for fairness and consistency throughout all aspects of justice.In exploring Voltaire's quote, we encounter a rich tapestry of ideas concerning power dynamics, perception, moral relativism, and the idiosyncratic nature of societal values. It challenges us to consider the manner in which crimes are judged and exposes the potential for manipulation and inconsistency within the justice system. Although centuries have passed since Voltaire's time, the underlying themes he presents continue to resonate in contemporary society, urging us to reflect upon and address the complexities of moral judgment.