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War is a terrible trade. But when the cause is just, the…

“War is a terrible trade. But when the cause is just, the smell of gunpowder is sweet.” quote by Myles Standish
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“War is a terrible trade. But when the cause is just, the smell of gunpowder is sweet.”

Myles Standish

About This Quote

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

War is dreadful, yet a just cause can make its harsh realities seem appealing.

In simple terms: Just cause makes war seem sweet.

Key Takeaway

Pursue justice, not war.

Themes

war morality justice sacrifice perception

Mood

serious reflective

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • military service
  • activism
  • policy debate

Key Concepts

ethics history political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is any war justified?
  • What defines a just cause?
A Different Perspective

Glorifies violence under justification.

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