Religion is so frequently a source of confusion in political life, and so frequently dangerous to democracy, precisely because it introduces absolutes into the realm of relative values.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
Democracies are indeed slow to make war, but once embarked upon a martial venture are equally slow to make peace and reluctant to make a tolerable, rather than a vindictive, peace.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracies hesitate to go to war but are equally hesitant to end conflicts peacefully.
This quote by Reinhold Niebuhr reflects on the complexities of democratic decision-making in times of war. It highlights a tendency for democracies to enter conflicts cautiously, yet once involved, they may struggle to pursue a fair and reconciliatory peace, choosing instead a more vindictive approach to resolution.
Themes
DemocracyWarPeaceVindictivenessConflictJustice
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to discuss the complexities of military strategies in a classroom setting.
More from Reinhold Niebuhr
All quotes →The tendency to claim God as an ally for our partisan value and ends is the source of all religious fanaticism.
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The mastery of nature is vainly believed to be an adequate substitute for self mastery.
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All you earnest young men out to save the world. . . please, have a laugh.
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Forgiveness is the final form of love.
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God, give me grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
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