George Herbert: 'War makes thieves and peace hangs them.'

War makes thieves and peace hangs them.

In the quote by George Herbert, "War makes thieves and peace hangs them," the author succinctly captures the transformative nature of conflict and its aftermath. At first glance, the quote seems to convey a simple message: during wartime, individuals may resort to thievery for survival, while in times of peace, justice is restored, and these transgressions are punished accordingly. However, by examining this quote through an unexpected philosophical lens, we can delve into deeper layers of its meaning and explore the complex interplay between war, peace, crime, and punishment.The initial interpretation of the quote seems to suggest a cause-and-effect relationship between war and thievery, hinting that conflict can drive individuals to commit acts they might otherwise deem unthinkable. War disrupts societal structures, obliterates economies, and instills fear and desperation. In such dire circumstances, people might resort to theft as a means of survival. As resources become scarce and uncertainties abound, the line between right and wrong blurs, morality succumbs to necessity, and thievery becomes a grim consequence.In contrast, the latter part of Herbert's quote reflects the restorative nature of peace. When conflicts subside, societies strive to rebuild and reestablish order. As stability returns, it allows for a reinstatement of justice, providing the means to hold individuals accountable for their crimes. Peaceful states allow the rule of law to prevail, offering the opportunity for transgressors to be tried and, if found guilty, to be punished accordingly. This juxtaposition between war and peace raises questions about the role of society in shaping individual behavior and the power of peace to restore harmony.However, to fully grasp the depth of this quote, let us consider a philosophical concept that adds a new layer of intrigue: the concept of the "shadow self." Coined by Carl Jung, the shadow self represents the hidden, often repressed, aspects of an individual's personality. It encompasses the dark, morally questionable tendencies that people may exhibit, consciously or unconsciously, when societal values and norms are strained. The shadow self thrives in times of conflict, where the boundaries of what is acceptable are blurred, enabling individuals to engage in behavior they might otherwise reject during periods of peace.Under the influence of war, the shadow self emerges more distinctly, giving rise to behaviors such as thievery, violence, and other criminal acts. The chaos and desperation that accompany conflict create fertile ground for this latent aspect of human nature to manifest itself. In this context, Herbert's quote takes on a more profound meaning – war not only makes thieves out of people but also reveals the shadow self that exists within them.Conversely, during times of peace, when the shadow self retreats into the darkness, the mechanisms of justice come to the fore. The restoration of societal order and an emphasis on the rule of law enable the identification and punishment of those who succumbed to their darker impulses. Peace, in this sense, becomes more than just an absence of conflict; it is a transformative force that keeps our shadow selves in check and ensures accountability for our actions.In conclusion, George Herbert's quote, "War makes thieves and peace hangs them," encapsulates the transformative nature of conflict and its aftermath. While war can push individuals to engage in acts of thievery, peace offers the opportunity for justice to prevail. By delving into the shadow self, we further understand the complexities of human behavior during times of strife and tranquility. Recognizing the interplay between war, peace, crime, and punishment prompts us to contemplate the underlying forces that shape our actions and the importance of fostering an inclusive, just society that restrains our shadow selves and upholds accountability.