“The law of nations is naturally founded on this principle, that different nations ought in time of peace to do one another all the good they can, and in time of war as little injury as possible, without prejudicing their real interests.”
- January 18, 1689 – February 10, 1755
- French
- Political Philosopher, Jurist, Author of The Spirit of the Laws
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Quote
“The law of nations is naturally founded on this principle, that different nations ought in time of peace to do one another all the good they can, and in time of war as little injury as possible, without prejudicing their real interests.”
Explanation
Montesquieu outlines a humane and rational foundation for international relations, asserting that peace should be marked by mutual benefit and war by restraint. Nations, he argues, have a natural obligation to help one another during peaceful times, fostering cooperation and goodwill. Even in conflict, the goal should not be total destruction, but minimal harm, always tempered by what is necessary to protect legitimate national interests.
This principle is rooted in Montesquieu’s Enlightenment belief that reason and morality can and should govern not only domestic affairs but also interactions between states. In The Spirit of the Laws, he consistently warns against the brutal excesses of war and calls for measured, principled behavior in both diplomacy and conflict. His vision anticipates modern concepts like just war theory and international humanitarian law, which seek to balance national interest with ethical conduct.
In today’s global context—marked by complex alliances, economic interdependence, and frequent geopolitical tensions—Montesquieu’s words remain relevant. He calls for a world where cooperation is maximized in peace and cruelty is minimized in war, recognizing both moral imperatives and the practical realities of statecraft. His ideal of ethical pragmatism in international law continues to inform the aspirations of modern diplomacy.
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