For these reasons they should not hesitate to exchange…
““For these reasons they should not hesitate to exchange peace for war. If wise men remain quiet, while they are not injured, brave men abandon peace for war when they are injured, returning to an understanding on a favourable opportunity: in fact, they are neither intoxicated by their success in war, nor disposed to take an injury for the sake of the delightful tranquility of peace. Indeed, to falter for the sake of such delights is, if you remain inactive, the quickest way of losing the sweets of repose to which you cling; while to conceive extravagant pretensions from success in war is to forget how hollow is the confidence by which you are elated.””
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 seen as a tempting alternative when peace feels unsafe; complacency can lead to conflict, while overconfidence after victory blinds judgment.
In simple terms: Peace can be abandoned when people feel unsafe; success can make them reckless.
Key Takeaway
Guard peace, question confidence after victories.
Themes
war
peace
complacency
confidence
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- government policy
- military leadership
- public discourse
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
political theory
human nature
strategic decisionmaking
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives societies to choose war over peace?
- How can leaders balance confidence and humility?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on war can ignore diplomatic solutions.