Admire and adore the Author of the telescopic universe, love and esteem the work, do all in your power to lessen ill, and increase good, but never assume to comprehend.
John AdamsRead
Great is the guilt of an unnecessary war.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Unnecessary wars bring great moral responsibility and shame.
John Adams' quote highlights the significant burden that comes with engaging in wars that could have been avoided. It suggests that the moral implications of such conflicts weigh heavily on humanity, as they result in loss, suffering, and injustice that could have been prevented through diplomacy and understanding.
Themes
GuiltWarPeaceResponsibilityMorality
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of diplomacy instead of military interventions.
More from John Adams
All quotes βProperty monopolized or in the possession of a few is a curse to mankind.
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Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.
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There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by the sword. The other is by debt.
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Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
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The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.
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