“If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it.”
July 12, 100 BC – March 15, 44 BC
Roman
Military General, Statesman, Dictator of the Roman Republic, Author
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Quote
“If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it.”
Explanation
This quote, attributed to Julius Caesar, reveals a pragmatic and arguably ruthless political philosophy. It suggests that the only justifiable reason to violate the law is for the purpose of acquiring power, while in all lesser matters, the law should be obeyed. This perspective frames law not as an absolute moral guide, but as a strategic tool—to be followed when it serves one’s interest, and broken only when the stakes are so high that power itself is on the line.
In Caesar’s historical context, the quote aligns with his controversial actions during the Roman civil wars, particularly when he crossed the Rubicon River, a move that was both illegal and revolutionary. He presented his actions as necessary for restoring order and defending the people, but critics viewed them as the deliberate dismantling of the Republic for personal rule. The quote thus captures the essence of realpolitik, where the pursuit of power is seen as a legitimate reason to override institutional boundaries.
In the modern world, this quote is often invoked to critique or analyze authoritarian behavior, political opportunism, or the flexible morality of those in power. It challenges democratic ideals by suggesting that law is subordinate to ambition, and it serves as both a warning and an explanation: that those who seek power often justify breaking rules under the guise of necessity, even while demanding obedience from others. Caesar’s words, whether sincere or cynical, remain a striking expression of the tension between principle and power.
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