“An unjust peace is better than a just war.”
- January 3, 106 BC – December 7, 43 BC
- Roman
- Orator, Philosopher, Statesman, Lawyer, Author
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Quote
“An unjust peace is better than a just war.”
Explanation
This quote reflects a strong preference for peace over conflict, even when the peace is flawed or morally compromised. Cicero argues that the consequences of war—violence, suffering, instability—are so grave that even an imperfect peace is preferable to the destruction of a just war. It is a statement of pragmatic humanism, where the preservation of life and social order takes precedence over abstract ideals of justice pursued through violence.
In Cicero’s lifetime, the Roman Republic was torn by civil wars and political upheaval. As both a statesman and philosopher, he witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of warfare, even when waged for seemingly noble purposes. This quote embodies his belief that peace enables the conditions for justice, governance, and philosophical life, whereas war, even with just cause, often undermines the very values it claims to defend.
In the modern world, Cicero’s message remains deeply relevant in international relations, diplomacy, and ethical debates about military intervention. While justice is a noble goal, violence often breeds cycles of resentment and destruction, delaying or denying genuine resolution. His quote serves as a warning: the cost of war must always be weighed with the highest seriousness, and peace—even imperfect—can be the more virtuous and sustainable path.
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