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Indeed men too often take upon themselves in the…

“Indeed men too often take upon themselves in the prosecution of their revenge to set the example of doing away with those general laws to which all can look for salvation in adversity, instead of allowing them to subsist against the day of danger when their aid may be required” quote by Thucydides
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“Indeed men too often take upon themselves in the prosecution of their revenge to set the example of doing away with those general laws to which all can look for salvation in adversity, instead of allowing them to subsist against the day of danger when their aid may be required”

Thucydides

About This Quote

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

People often abandon universal laws for personal revenge, risking societal stability in crises.

In simple terms: Revenge can undermine shared rules needed in danger.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize collective welfare over personal vendettas.

Themes

justice law revenge society

Mood

serious reflective

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • war
  • political conflict
  • legal systems

Key Concepts

political philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should personal justice yield to common law?
  • How can societies balance individual grievances with collective safety?
A Different Perspective

Revenge may be seen as justified by some.

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