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It is not the cause for which men took up arms that makes a victory more just or less, it is the order that is established when arms have been laid down.
Simone Weil
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True justice in victory is determined not by the reasons for conflict, but by the peace established afterward.

Simone Weil's quote emphasizes that the morality of a victory in war is not defined by the initial cause for which people fought, but rather by the quality and justice of the order that follows the cessation of hostilities. It suggests that the outcomes of war, particularly the peace and order they produce, hold greater significance than the principles or motivations that initiated the conflict.

Themes

JusticePeaceWarVictoryOrder

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the consequences of war, this quote serves to highlight the importance of achieving a lasting peace.

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