There are situations that a nation may be in, in which…
““There are situations that a nation may be in, in which peace or war, abstracted from every other consideration, may be politically right or wrong. When nothing can be lost by a war, but what must be lost without it, war is then the policy of that country; and such was the situation of America at the commencement of hostilities: but when no security can be gained by a war, but what may be accomplished by a peace, the case becomes reversed.””
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 justified only when peace cannot achieve a nation’s essential security; otherwise peace is preferable.
In simple terms: War is a last resort when peace fails.
Key Takeaway
Seek peaceful solutions before considering conflict.
Themes
politics
ethics
war
peace
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
strategic
When to use this quote
- national security decisions
- diplomatic negotiations
- military planning
Key Concepts
realpolitik
just war theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When is war truly unavoidable?
- What criteria define a just peace?
A Different Perspective
War may cause unintended suffering even when deemed politically right.