Defense Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
“Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: On the Just War, Cicero, 44 BC
A war is only just if it is defensive or retaliatory, not unprovoked aggression.
In simple terms: Just wars are defensive or retaliatory, not unprovoked.
Key Takeaway
Support defensive actions, avoid aggression.
Themes
justice
war
ethics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- military policy
- international law
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
just war theory
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- When is war morally permissible?
- Can retaliation ever be unjust?
A Different Perspective
Defining justice in war is complex and subjective.
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