Meaning: Douglass North, an American economist and Nobel Prize winner, shared this quote, reflecting on his decision to join the Merchant Marine instead of pursuing his original plan of attending law school due to the outbreak of the war. This statement provides insight into North's moral and ethical considerations, as well as the impact of external events on his career path.

North's reference to the war starting likely pertains to World War II, a global conflict that significantly influenced the lives and decisions of individuals around the world. The outbreak of the war disrupted many people's plans and forced them to make difficult choices, as it did for North.

The declaration that he did not want to kill anybody indicates North's aversion to engaging in combat and the taking of human life. This sentiment aligns with his later work as an economist, where he explored the relationship between institutions, economic development, and societal behavior. North's emphasis on understanding the impact of institutions and norms on human interactions may have been shaped, in part, by his personal values and experiences during this formative period of his life.

By opting to join the Merchant Marine, North chose a path that allowed him to contribute to the war effort in a non-combatant role. The Merchant Marine played a crucial role in transporting essential supplies and personnel across dangerous waters during the conflict. North's decision reflects a commitment to service and duty, albeit in a manner consistent with his principles.

North's educational background is also noteworthy, as he mentions graduating from Berkeley before joining the Merchant Marine. The University of California, Berkeley, is renowned for its academic rigor and intellectual environment. North's time at Berkeley likely shaped his thinking and provided him with a strong foundation in critical analysis and scholarly inquiry, which would later inform his influential contributions to the field of economics.

Overall, North's quote encapsulates a pivotal moment in his life when external circumstances forced him to reconsider his plans and make a principled decision. His choice to prioritize his beliefs and values in the face of a world-changing event demonstrates a commitment to integrity and personal conviction, qualities that would continue to define his academic and professional pursuits.

In summary, Douglass North's decision to forgo law school in favor of joining the Merchant Marine due to the war reflects his conscientious objection to killing and his willingness to serve in a non-combatant capacity. This choice, influenced by the outbreak of World War II, highlights North's ethical considerations and the formative impact of external events on his trajectory. Furthermore, his academic background at Berkeley likely contributed to his intellectual development and subsequent contributions to the field of economics, where he became known for his work on institutions and economic development.