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Canon Quote by William Shakespeare

“Religious canons, civil laws, are cruel; then what should war be?” quote by William Shakespeare
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“Religious canons, civil laws, are cruel; then what should war be?”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Religious rules and civil laws can be cruel; what then justifies war?

In simple terms: Cruel laws raise war questions.

Key Takeaway

Question moral bases of conflict.

Themes

ethics law war

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • military strategy
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

justice human rights political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is war morally defensible?
  • How do laws influence war decisions?
A Different Perspective

War may be used to enforce unjust laws.

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