I'm a person who has always believed that you tell people the truth, and they'll make reasonable decisions. Truth is powerful.
John F. KerryRead
For sure, there are times when one may have no choice but to go to war, but it is never something to rush to or accept without exploring every other available option.
Interpretation
What this quote means
War should always be a last resort after all other options are exhausted.
In this quote, John F. Kerry emphasizes the importance of careful consideration and exploration of alternatives before resorting to war. He acknowledges that there are situations where conflict may become unavoidable, but he cautions against hastily embracing violent solutions without first seeking out peaceful resolutions and diplomatic avenues.
Themes
WarPeaceDiplomacyConflictChoices
In practice
Example use cases
A leader addressing their people about the importance of considering diplomacy over combat.
More from John F. Kerry
All quotes →Confronting climate change is, in the long run, one of the greatest challenges that we face, and you can see this duty or responsibility laid down in scriptures, clearly.
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Unlike Washington, which is stuck in ideological gridlock, Americans feel the impact of climate change in their own hometowns and they know something must be done.
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Here I am in the state of New Mexico. George Bush is still in the state of denial. New Mexico has five electoral votes. The state of denial has none. I like my chances.
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Democracy relies on free speech. Yes, say anything you want, but it relies even more on the speech being truthful. It is the truth, after all, that sets us free.
John F. KerryRead
War should be not a war of choice; it should be a war of necessity. And it should be a last resort.
John F. KerryRead
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