Lawful Quote by Samuel Sewall
“An unlawful war can't make lawful captives”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Law of England, 1690
War cannot legitimize the captivity of enemies; legality cannot be forced by force.
In simple terms: War doesn’t make prisoners lawful.
Key Takeaway
Question the morality of wartime captivity.
Themes
ethics
law
war
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- military policy
- humanitarian law
- international relations
Key Concepts
justice
human rights
legal theory
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to uphold moral law in all wartime actions?
- How can societies balance security and ethics?
A Different Perspective
May overlook practical security concerns.
![“What is lawful is undesirable; what is unlawful is very attractive. [Lat., Quod licet est ingratum quod non licet acrius urit.]” quote by Ovid](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dfd/ovid-276_attractive_what-is-lawful-is-undesirable-what-is-un_2990321.jpg)
![“So that originally, and Naturally, there is no such thing as Slavery. Joseph was rightfully no more a Slave to his brethren, then they were to him: and they no more Authority to Sell him, than they had to Slay him. [Genesis 37].” quote by Samuel Sewall](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/613/samuel-sewall-95664_bible-interpretation_so-that-originally-and-naturally-there-i_2619011.jpg)
