Aggression Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“By nature's law, man is at peace with man till some aggression is committed, which, by the same law, authorizes one to destroy another as his enemy.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Letter to James Madison, 1790
Humans coexist peacefully until aggression breaks the natural order, then violence is justified against the aggressor.
In simple terms: Peace lasts until someone attacks; then retaliation is allowed.
Recognize the role of aggression in conflict.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal disputes
- international relations
- self‑defense
- law enforcement
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is aggression justified?
- How can peace be maintained without retaliation?
Aggression may be provoked, making retaliation morally complex.