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Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without…

“Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
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“Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.”

Marcus Tullius Cicero

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A war is only just if it is defensive or retaliatory, not unprovoked aggression.

In simple terms: Just wars are defensive or retaliatory, not unprovoked.

Key Takeaway

Support defensive actions, avoid aggression.

Themes

justice war ethics

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • military policy
  • international law
  • human rights advocacy

Key Concepts

just war theory moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is war morally permissible?
  • Can retaliation ever be unjust?
A Different Perspective

Defining justice in war is complex and subjective.

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