"Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defense can be just"
- Cicero
About this Quote
This quote by Cicero talks to the concept of justice in war. He recommends that wars which are undertaken without provocation are unjustified. This suggests that wars which are begun for reasons besides revenge or defense are unfair. This could be analyzed to mean that wars which are started for political or financial gain, or for the purpose of broadening a nation's power, are unfair. It could also be analyzed to imply that wars which are begun for ideological factors, such as religious or racial distinctions, are unjust. In either case, Cicero is recommending that wars which are begun without a justifiable factor are unfair. He is also recommending that wars which are begun for revenge or defense are just, as they are undertaken in response to an incorrect that has actually been done. This quote speaks with the concept that justice need to be the main inspiration for any war, and that wars which are begun without a sensible reason are unfair.