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 British journalist and economist, was known for his insightful observations on politics, society, and culture. One of his famous quotes, "Conquest is the missionary of valor, and the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world," reflects his belief in the transformative power of conquest and military virtues.

Bagehot believed that conquest, or the act of conquering and subjugating others, could serve as a catalyst for the development of valor, or courage and bravery, in individuals and societies. He saw conquest as a means of testing and honing one's character, pushing individuals to rise to the occasion and demonstrate their strength and resilience in the face of adversity. In this sense, conquest could be seen as a form of moral and spiritual growth, as individuals were forced to confront their fears and weaknesses and overcome them through acts of courage and determination.

Furthermore, Bagehot believed that the "hard impact of military virtues," such as discipline, loyalty, and self-sacrifice, could help to eradicate meanness, or pettiness and selfishness, from the world. He saw military virtues as a counterbalance to the base instincts and selfish desires that often drive human behavior, providing a moral compass and a sense of duty that transcended individual interests and promoted the common good. In this way, the values instilled by military training and service could help to elevate individuals and societies to a higher plane of moral and ethical conduct, fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual respect among people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

Overall, Bagehot's quote reflects his belief in the transformative power of conquest and military virtues in shaping individuals and societies for the better. By challenging individuals to confront their fears and weaknesses, and by instilling in them a sense of duty and honor, conquest and military virtues can help to cultivate valor and eradicate meanness, creating a more just and virtuous world for all.