Always there has been some terrible evil at home or some monstrous foreign power that was going to gobble us up if we did not blindly rally behind it.

In this quote, Douglas MacArthur reflects on the recurring theme of fear and the sense of imminent danger that has often been used to rally people into action throughout history. He notes that, in many societies, there has always been some form of terrible evil—whether internal or external—that is presented as a threat. This fear is used to justify the need for unity and blind loyalty, urging people to rally behind leadership or a cause without questioning it.

MacArthur’s statement addresses the manipulation of public sentiment through the creation of an enemy—often a monstrous foreign power or an internal force—used to evoke fear and obedience. He suggests that such tactics have been employed to unite people, typically in times of crisis or war, by portraying any opposition or dissent as a threat to the nation's survival. This creates a powerful narrative where people are urged to set aside doubts and trust in their leaders' decisions.

The idea of an external enemy that is always "going to gobble us up" reflects the historical use of propaganda and nationalism to maintain control over populations. By constantly presenting a dire threat, leaders can foster a sense of urgency and loyalty, often leading citizens to overlook the complexities or moral implications of their actions. This kind of rhetoric has been seen throughout history in times of war or national tension.

Ultimately, MacArthur’s quote critiques how fear has been used as a tool to manipulate societies, leading people to blindly rally behind causes without fully understanding or questioning the underlying motives. His words highlight the dangers of allowing fear to dictate decision-making and the importance of recognizing when fear is being exploited for political or military gain.