"War is to man what maternity is to a woman. From a philosophical and doctrinal viewpoint, I do not believe in perpetual peace"

Benito Mussolini’s statement, “War is to man what maternity is to a woman. From a philosophical and doctrinal viewpoint, I do not believe in perpetual peace,” reveals the depth of his ideological convictions and offers crucial insight into fascist philosophy. By drawing a parallel between war and maternity, Mussolini asserts that war is an inherent, almost natural function for men, analogous to a woman’s capacity for motherhood. Both are framed as biological imperatives, essential for the fulfillment of their respective roles within society. This comparison does not just serve as an observation of traditional gender roles but elevates war itself to a necessary and honorable pursuit intrinsic to masculine identity.

The second part of the statement, embracing the impossibility of perpetual peace, embodies a worldview rooted in conflict and dynamism rather than harmony and stability. Mussolini rejects any philosophical doctrine that envisions a world without war, underscoring the belief that struggle and confrontation are fundamental elements of human existence. According to this logic, periods of peace are merely temporary interludes between unavoidable conflicts. In this perspective, war becomes a driving force of progress and renewal, purging decadence and rejuvenating societies.

Underlying Mussolini’s words is the fascist glorification of violence and the subordination of individual aspirations to the needs of the state. By making war synonymous with natural phenomena such as childbirth, he normalizes and even sanctifies violence as a creative and necessary act. Peace, on the other hand, is portrayed as stagnation or denial of an essential part of human nature. This mindset justified military aggression and expansionism under fascist regimes, positing war as both inevitable and desirable.

The quote reflects an anti-pacifistic stance and dismisses any vision of enduring tranquility as naïve or contrary to the human condition. For Mussolini, the embrace of conflict is not only a practical necessity but a philosophical truth, war and struggle shape history, define nations, and, in his view, allow men to achieve their destiny.