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Duty Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero

“There are some duties we owe even to those who have wronged us. There is, after all, a limit to retribution and punishment.” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
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“There are some duties we owe even to those who have wronged us. There is, after all, a limit to retribution and punishment.”

Marcus Tullius Cicero

About This Quote

Even enemies deserve basic moral obligations; excessive vengeance undermines justice.

In simple terms: Justice balances duty and restraint.

Key Takeaway

Limits on retribution preserve humanity.

Themes

justice duty restraint morality forgiveness

Mood

thoughtful reflective serene

Type

philosophical ethical maxim

When to use this quote

  • post-conflict reconciliation
  • legal sentencing
  • interpersonal disputes
  • restorative justice

Key Concepts

ethical limits human dignity social cohesion

Practical Applications

  • policy design for humane punishment
  • conflict mediation frameworks

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should compassion override retaliation?
  • How do societies define the line between justice and vengeance?
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