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To rob, to ravage, to murder, in their imposing language…

“To rob, to ravage, to murder, in their imposing language, are the arts of civil policy. When they have made the world a solitude, they call it peace.” quote by Tacitus
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“To rob, to ravage, to murder, in their imposing language, are the arts of civil policy. When they have made the world a solitude, they call it peace.”

Tacitus

About This Quote

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

War and violence are presented as statecraft, and peace is falsely portrayed as the result of such cruelty.

In simple terms: War is glorified as policy; peace is a lie.

Key Takeaway

Critically examine the true cost of peace.

Themes

war politics peace propaganda ethics

Mood

critical historical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • journalism
  • education
  • activism

Key Concepts

Realpolitik moral philosophy history

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “peace” truly mean in this context?
  • How can societies pursue genuine peace?
A Different Perspective

Peace achieved through violence is morally compromised.

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