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Covenant Quote by Thomas Hobbes

“A Covenant not to defend my selfe from force, by force, is always voyd.” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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“A Covenant not to defend my selfe from force, by force, is always voyd.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

Source Book: Leviathan, 1651

Defending oneself with force breeds more force; violence be violence.

In simple terms: Force begets force.

Key Takeaway

Seek non‑violent resolutions.

Themes

violence self‑defense ethics

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • legal systems
  • personal safety

Key Concepts

political philosophy moral theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is force justified?
  • What alternatives exist to violent defense?
A Different Perspective

Non‑violent approaches can be impractical in immediate threats.

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