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If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it.
Julius Caesar
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote suggests that breaking the law may be justified if it is for gaining power, but otherwise, one should follow the law.

Julius Caesar's quote implies that there are rare circumstances, particularly related to leadership and power, where violating the law can be seen as acceptable. It acknowledges the complexities of governance and the necessity of authority, while simultaneously advocating for the rule of law in most situations. This reflects the moral dilemmas leaders may face when their ambitions conflict with legal frameworks.

Themes

LawPowerLeadershipGovernanceEthics

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about political ethics, one could quote Caesar to examine the limits of lawful behavior in the pursuit of leadership.

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War gives the right to the conquerors to impose any condition they please upon the vanquished.
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