Such, indeed, is the policy of civil war: severely to…
“Such, indeed, is the policy of civil war: severely to remember injuries, and to forget the most important services. Revenge is profitable, gratitude is expensive.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote warns that civil conflict breeds a focus on past harms while neglecting past kindnesses, making vengeance seem rewarding and gratitude costly.
In simple terms: War makes us remember hurts, forget favors; revenge feels worthwhile, gratitude costly.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and value past good deeds despite conflict.
Themes
conflict
memory
morality
politics
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
historical
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- post‑war reconciliation
- personal grudges
- team dynamics
Key Concepts
revenge
gratitude
historical analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance justice with remembrance of kindness?
- What practices foster gratitude in hostile environments?
A Different Perspective
It may oversimplify complex motivations and ignore structural causes of conflict.