"All wars are follies, very expensive and very mischievous ones"

This quote by Benjamin Franklin speaks with the futility of war. He is stating that all wars are silly and inefficient ventures. He is indicating that the expenses of war, both in regards to human life and financial resources, far exceed any prospective advantages. He is likewise suggesting that war is a destructive force that causes more damage than good. He is cautioning us that war ought to be avoided at all expenses, as it is a costly and devastating venture.

Franklin's words are a pointer that war need to be a last resort, which it needs to only be used when absolutely essential. He is advising us to utilize diplomacy and settlement to solve disputes, instead of resorting to violence. He is also alerting us that war can have disastrous effects, both for those included and for the world at big. His words are a suggestion that war ought to be prevented whenever possible, which it ought to only be utilized as a last option.