The greatest statesmen, philosophers, humanitarians ... have not been able to put an end to war. Why place that demand on photography?

I'm half deaf. I have nerve damage and a constant ringing in both of my ears, and there are certain times and conditions when I can hardly hear at all.

I became a photographer in order to be a war photographer, and a photographer involved in what I thought were critical social issues. From the very beginning this was my goal.

I have been a witness, and these pictures are my testimony. The events I have recorded should not be forgotten and must not be repeated.

If I can upset people, if I can ruin their day, then I have done my job.

Starvation and disease are the original weapons of mass destruction. When you burn fields and kill animals, people are left vulnerable.

I want to record history through the destiny of individuals who often belong to the least wealthy classes. I do not want to show war in general, nor history with a capital H, but rather the tragedy of a single man, of a family.