Skip to content

Law Quote by Steven Pinker

“Violence between the combatants may be called war; violence by the bystander against the combatants may be called law. The Leviathan theory, in a nutshell, is that law is better than war.” quote by Steven Pinker
Download Open image
““Violence between the combatants may be called war; violence by the bystander against the combatants may be called law. The Leviathan theory, in a nutshell, is that law is better than war.””

Steven Pinker

About This Quote

Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature, Steven Pinker, 2011

Law offers a structured, less violent alternative to war, though both are forms of violence.

In simple terms: Law is a civilized substitute for war.

Key Takeaway

Promote rule of law over force.

Themes

law war violence

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • legal reform
  • peacebuilding
  • international diplomacy
  • civil rights advocacy

Key Concepts

political theory ethics conflict resolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can law be made truly just?
  • When does law become a tool of oppression?
A Different Perspective

Law can be imperfect and still perpetuate violence.

3.0 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Steven Pinker

Explore all 495 Steven Pinker quotes

More Law quotes

Browse all 16,975 Law quotes