Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
An unjust peace is better than a just war.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Sometimes it is better to accept an imperfect situation than to engage in conflict that causes greater harm.
This quote highlights the idea that the consequences of war—suffering, loss, and destruction—often outweigh the benefits of pursuing justice through violent means. Cicero suggests that in situations where peace can be maintained, even if it is not entirely fair or just, it is preferable to the chaos and devastation brought about by war, which is inherently violent and harmful.
Themes
PeaceWarJusticeConflictMorality
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about international relations, one might use this quote to suggest diplomacy over military action.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes →Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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