Meaning: This quote by journalist Neil Sheehan reflects a personal struggle with understanding the morality and implications of certain policies, particularly in the context of war and conflict. It captures the internal conflict experienced by individuals who may witness or be involved in actions that cause harm and suffering, yet find it difficult to question the underlying policies or justifications.

Neil Sheehan is a renowned journalist who is best known for his reporting on the Vietnam War. His quote suggests a deep-seated internal struggle with the disconnect between witnessing the devastating impact of certain policies and the inability to fully grasp the inherent wrongness of those policies. This internal conflict is a common experience for individuals who may find themselves in situations where they are faced with the harsh realities of the consequences of certain actions or policies.

The quote alludes to the escalation of violence and destruction, particularly the targeting of civilian populations, which Sheehan found deeply upsetting. This reflects the profound moral dilemma faced by individuals who are confronted with the human cost of policies and actions that they may have previously supported or been a part of. The realization of the immense suffering caused by these policies challenges Sheehan's previous beliefs and forces him to reevaluate his understanding of the situation.

Sheehan's struggle to reconcile his personal experiences with his preconceived notions about the policies in question speaks to the complexity of moral decision-making in the face of conflict and war. It highlights the internal turmoil that arises when individuals are forced to confront the consequences of policies that may have been previously rationalized or justified within a larger framework.

The quote also underscores the psychological and emotional impact of witnessing the suffering of innocent civilians, which serves as a catalyst for Sheehan's internal conflict. The disconnect between the perceived necessity or righteousness of a policy and the tangible human suffering it causes is a profound ethical dilemma that Sheehan grapples with.

This quote sheds light on the moral and ethical struggles that individuals, especially those involved in conflict and its coverage, may encounter when confronted with the harsh realities of the consequences of certain policies and actions. It serves as a poignant reminder of the complex and often agonizing nature of moral decision-making in the context of war and conflict.

In conclusion, Neil Sheehan's quote encapsulates the internal turmoil and moral struggle experienced by individuals when confronted with the devastating impact of policies and actions in the context of conflict and war. It serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of moral decision-making and the profound emotional and psychological toll of witnessing the human cost of such policies.