For in reason, all government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery.
Jonathan SwiftRead
If there is no sufficient reason for war, the war party will make war on one pretext, then invent another... after the war is on.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that wars often arise from unfounded reasons created by those who seek conflict.
Robert M. La Follette's quote reflects on the tendency of war advocates to fabricate justifications for conflict when no legitimate reason exists. It highlights the manipulative nature of those in power who, once engaged in war, will continue to create narratives to sustain their actions, thus revealing a deeper commentary on the ethics of war and political manipulation.
Themes
WarConflictPoliticsPowerManipulation
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on military intervention, this quote could be used to emphasize the importance of clear justification before engaging in war.
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