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There is no such thing as a good war or a bad peace.
Benjamin Franklin
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Interpretation

What this quote means

War is inherently negative, and peace is always preferable, regardless of circumstances.

Benjamin Franklin's quote emphasizes that the concepts of 'good' and 'bad' in relation to war and peace are misleading. It suggests that war should never be justified as good, while peace should always be viewed as a valuable state, regardless of the challenges that come with it. The underlying message is to prioritize peace above conflict, advocating for an examination of the true costs of war.

Themes

WarPeacePhilosophyConflictBenjamin Franklin

In practice

Example use cases

In a debate about military intervention, one might quote Franklin to emphasize the importance of pursuing peace.

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I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
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