[I]t being reasonable and just, I should have a right to…
![“[I]t being reasonable and just, I should have a right to destroy that which threatens me with destruction: for by the fundamental law of nature, man being to be preserved as much as possible, when all cannot be preserved, the safety of the innocent is to be preferred: and one may destroy a man who…” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/e7d/john-locke-814_destruction_i-t-being-reasonable-and-just-i-should-h_404829.jpg)
“[I]t being reasonable and just, I should have a right to destroy that which threatens me with destruction: for by the fundamental law of nature, man being to be preserved as much as possible, when all cannot be preserved, the safety of the innocent is to be preferred: and one may destroy a man who makes war upon him, or has discovered an enmity to his being, for the same reason that he may kill a Wolf or a lion.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Self‑defence is justified when survival is threatened; preserving innocent life outweighs preserving an aggressor, akin to killing dangerous animals.
In simple terms: Protecting oneself and innocents can require lethal force.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize safety over aggressor’s life.
Themes
self‑defence
ethics
law
survival
innocence
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
ethical
legal
When to use this quote
- personal safety
- law enforcement
- military engagement
Key Concepts
Natural law
rights
just war theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When is lethal force truly necessary?
- How can societies limit abuse of self‑defence claims?
A Different Perspective
Risk of misuse or escalation.