QuoteProject
All wars are follies, very expensive and very mischievous ones. In my opinion, there never was a good war or a bad peace. When will mankind be convinced and agree to settle their difficulties by arbitration?
Benjamin Franklin
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Interpretation

What this quote means

War is foolish and costly, and true peace is always preferable.

Benjamin Franklin's quote reflects a deep critique of war, emphasizing its high costs and negative consequences. He argues that there is no justification for war when peaceful means, such as arbitration, can resolve conflicts more effectively, highlighting the need for humanity to prioritize dialogue over violence.

Themes

WarPeaceArbitrationConflictHumanity

In practice

Example use cases

During a peace rally, I shared this quote to emphasize the futility of war.

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I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
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