Steal Captain Black's car, said Yossarian. That's what I always do. We can't steal anybody's car. Since you began stealing the nearest car every time you wanted one, nobody leaves the ignition on.
In "Catch-22," Yossarian expresses a practical but morally questionable approach to obtaining a car, suggesting that stealing Captain Black's vehicle is his usual method. This reflects a sense of desperation and the absurdity of wartime decisions, where survival often trumps ethical considerations. Yossarian's comment emphasizes the lengths to which individuals go to navigate the chaos of conflict.
However, his friend counters this notion by pointing out the consequences of such actions. Since Yossarian's habit of stealing cars has escalated, it has led people to be more cautious, ensuring they do not leave their cars with the ignition on. This dialogue highlights the ripple effect of individual actions in a broader societal context, showcasing the challenges of maintaining morality in a system fraught with absurdity.
