Energetic Quote by Carl von Clausewitz
“If we read history with an open mind, we cannot fail to conclude that, among all the military virtues, the energetic conduct of war has always contributed most to glory and success.”
About This Quote
Source Book: On War by Carl von Clausewitz, 1832
War's most celebrated virtue is energetic conduct, which historically brings glory and success.
In simple terms: Energetic war leads to glory and success.
Key Takeaway
Embrace vigorous action in conflict.
Themes
military strategy
glory
success
energy
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
strategic
historical
When to use this quote
- leadership decisions
- military planning
- national defense
- strategic training
Key Concepts
Clausewitzian theory
virtue
historical analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How does energetic conduct affect long‑term stability?
- When is restraint preferable?
A Different Perspective
Energetic conduct may cause unnecessary destruction or moral cost.
![“Rather than comparing [war] to art we could more accurately compare it to commerce, which is also a conflict of human interests and activities; and it is still closer to politics, which in turn may be considered as a kind of commerce on a larger scale.” quote by Carl von Clausewitz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c35/carl-von-clausewitz-2060_activity_rather-than-comparing-war-to-art-we-coul_21236.jpg)
