The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
A bad peace is even worse than war.
Interpretation
What this quote means
It suggests that a flawed or unjust peace can be more detrimental than open conflict.
This quote by Tacitus emphasizes the idea that a peace that is based on oppression, injustice, or falsehood can lead to greater suffering and unrest than a straightforward war. It highlights the importance of striving for a true and fair peace rather than settling for a superficial resolution that fails to address underlying issues.
Themes
PeaceWarJusticeConflictPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a discussion about foreign policy to emphasize the importance of genuine peace treaties.
More from Tacitus
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Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
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Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
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So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
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The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
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