Some men are alive simply because it is against the law to kill them.

In this quote, E. W. Howe, an American author and journalist, offers a cynical and somewhat sarcastic view of certain individuals who continue to exist without contributing meaningfully to society. Howe suggests that some people are alive not because they have a purpose or worth, but because it is illegal to kill them. The quote reflects his belief that these individuals lack value or substance in life, merely existing as a result of the laws that protect human life.

Howe’s words also point to a deeper frustration with societal norms and the concept of morality. The idea that someone might only be alive due to the constraint of law rather than personal merit or achievement challenges the reader to think about what makes life meaningful. In this view, existence is not automatically tied to value or contribution, but to the simple fact of being protected by society’s rules.

The quote also plays with the concept of purpose in life. Howe seems to question whether just being alive, without any meaningful action or impact, is enough. By making this provocative statement, he encourages reflection on the quality of life and the role each individual plays in their community, pointing out that being alive doesn't automatically equate to leading a significant or positive life.

Ultimately, Howe’s quote invites a critical examination of what it means to truly live and the reasons for which we value life. It challenges the notion of passive existence and suggests that one should strive to contribute something worthwhile rather than simply existing because they are protected by laws.