History Quote by Thomas Paine
““There are situations that a nation may be in, in which peace or war, abstracted from every other consideration, may be politically right or wrong. When nothing can be lost by a war, but what must be lost without it, war is then the policy of that country; and such was the situation of America at the commencement of hostilities: but when no security can be gained by a war, but what may be accomplished by a peace, the case becomes reversed.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Common Sense, 1776
War is justified only when peace cannot achieve a nation’s essential security; otherwise peace is preferable.
In simple terms: War is a last resort when peace fails.
Key Takeaway
Seek peaceful solutions before considering conflict.
Themes
politics
ethics
war
peace
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
strategic
When to use this quote
- national security decisions
- diplomatic negotiations
- military planning
Key Concepts
realpolitik
just war theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When is war truly unavoidable?
- What criteria define a just peace?
A Different Perspective
War may cause unintended suffering even when deemed politically right.
