Character Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Leviathan, 1651
War relies on force and deception as its fundamental virtues.
In simple terms: War uses power and trickery.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the cost of conflict.
Themes
war
force
deception
Mood
somber
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- military strategy
- diplomacy
- political campaigns
Key Concepts
political theory
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- Is deception ever justified in war?
- How to reduce reliance on force?
A Different Perspective
Moral justification can obscure suffering.
