Duration Quote by Seneca the Younger
“Power exercised with violence has seldom been of long duration ...”
About This Quote
Source Letter to Lucilius, Moral Epistles, 1st century AD
Violence may achieve short‑term goals, but it rarely sustains power or legitimacy over time.
In simple terms: Violence rarely sustains power.
Key Takeaway
Seek lasting authority through virtue.
Themes
power
violence
legitimacy
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- government leadership
- social movements
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
ethics
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can power be maintained without force?
- What alternatives to violence exist?
A Different Perspective
Violence can breed resistance and instability.
