PrintJune 4, 2004
Orwell was wrong
In writing about Kipling, George Orwell said, "[Kipling] sees clearly that men can only be highly civilized while other men, inevitably less civilized, are there to guard and feed them."
When my best friend, a 33 year—old attorney decided to enlist in the Marine Corps Reserves, I had an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of 'civilized' and how Orwell missed it.
First a little background.
David is a litigator with a prestigious law firm in Houston. A State Representative sits down the hall. It is the sort of firm every young law student dreams of joining. Because David did a five—year stint on active duty with the Marines, he is the oldest first—year associate in the firm. From every indication, his legal career (civil litigation, medical malpractice defense) is going well and his future looks bright.
So why did David join a Marine Reserve unit that has already been ordered to Iraq? Why would he give up the fast track to partner...(Read Full Article)
