Meaning: The quote by Wallace Shawn, an American actor and playwright, reflects a strong moral and ethical stance on the actions of political leaders. In this quote, Shawn expresses the belief that if former U.S. President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney were able to empathize with the mothers of people around the world, they would be less likely to commit the perceived injustices and crimes that have been associated with their time in office.

The quote touches upon the fundamental concept of empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. In this context, Shawn suggests that a lack of empathy towards the mothers of individuals in other parts of the world may have contributed to the decision-making process of these political leaders. By highlighting the "full humanity" of other people's mothers, the quote emphasizes the universal connection between people and the importance of recognizing and respecting the humanity of others, regardless of nationality, race, or religion.

The choice of words in the quote is significant. By using the term "crimes," Shawn explicitly frames the actions of Bush and Cheney within a moral and ethical context. This suggests that the quote is not simply referring to policy differences or political disagreements, but rather to actions that are considered morally reprehensible or criminal in nature. It conveys a strong sense of condemnation for the perceived actions of the two leaders.

The quote also raises questions about the role of empathy and moral responsibility in the decision-making of political leaders. It suggests that a lack of empathy towards others, particularly towards the mothers of those affected by their decisions, may lead to a disregard for the consequences of their actions. By emphasizing the need for recognizing the "full humanity" of others, the quote calls attention to the ethical considerations that should underpin political decision-making and the impact of those decisions on individuals and their families.

This quote is particularly relevant in the context of the United States' foreign policy during the tenure of Bush and Cheney. The administration's decisions, particularly with regards to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the use of controversial interrogation techniques, were highly contentious and raised significant moral and ethical concerns. Shawn's quote can be interpreted as a critique of these actions, suggesting that a failure to recognize the humanity of those affected by these decisions may have contributed to the perceived injustices and crimes committed.

In conclusion, Wallace Shawn's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the moral and ethical responsibilities of political leaders. It highlights the importance of empathy and the recognition of the humanity of others in shaping decisions that have far-reaching consequences. By framing the actions of Bush and Cheney within the context of empathy and moral accountability, the quote invites reflection on the ethical considerations that should inform political leadership and decision-making processes.