It is the rare person who is opposed to the exercise of force. The real question is — when is force justified and when is it necessary? This is one of the most important questions in human philosophy, whether one is talking about defending oneself or bigger questions of war.

We don’t pretend to have arrived at any conclusive answer on this question. We do, however, consider the words of many of history’s wisest men to be worth considering.

Even government force is not confined to the realm of war, but also the enforcement of laws. Should there be laws? If so, what ought they to be and why? When is it right and necessary for a man to resist these laws? These are, much like the above questions of the exercise of force, critical and crucial questions that go to the heart of human philosophy. Indeed, they are in many ways a simple restatement of these questions.

The following collection of quotes comes from all over the political spectrum. We do not believe that there is a single viewpoint holding a monopoly on the truth with regard to this question. Rather, a multi-faceted approach provides a fuller picture of this important topic. We hope that you will read something here that will enhance your own thinking on the subject.

 

Quotes About the Justification of Force

Niccoló Machiavelli

“Here a question arises: whether it is better to be loved than feared, or the reverse. The answer is, of course, that it would be best to be both loved and feared. But since the two rarely come together, anyone compelled to choose will find greater security in being feared than in being loved…Love endures by a bond which men, being fickle, may break whenever it serves their advantage to do so; but fear is supported by the dread of pain, which is ever present.”

– Niccoló Machiavelli

Niccoló Machiavelli on Use of Force Quotes

Niccolò Machiavelli’s quote encapsulates the perennial dilemma of leadership: whether it’s preferable to be loved or feared. Machiavelli suggests that while ideally, a leader should command both love and fear, in practice, this balance is elusive. He argues that if one must choose, it is wiser to instill fear, as it provides more reliable security than love. Love, according to Machiavelli, is fragile, subject to the whims of human nature, whereas fear is rooted in the tangible dread of consequences. Thus, in the pursuit of stability and control, Machiavelli advises prioritizing fear over love in the realm of governance.

 

Niccoló Machiavelli

“Injuries ought to be done all at one time, so that, being tasted less, they offend less; benefits ought to be given little by little, so that the flavor of them may last longer.”

– Niccoló Machiavelli

Niccoló Machiavelli on Use of Force Quotes

Niccolò Machiavelli’s quote underscores a strategic approach to handling relationships and power dynamics. He advises delivering all necessary injuries or negative actions swiftly and decisively, minimizing their impact by allowing them to be swiftly forgotten. Conversely, Machiavelli suggests doling out benefits slowly and incrementally, ensuring that their positive effects linger and create a lasting impression. This approach acknowledges the psychology of human perception, recognizing that gradual benefits are savored and appreciated over time, while swift injuries are less potent when their sting is brief and quickly forgotten. It reflects Machiavelli’s pragmatic understanding of the complexities of human nature and manipulation.

 

Niccoló Machiavelli

“I am firmly convinced, therefore, that to set up a republic which is to last a long time, the way to set about it is to constitute it as Sparta and Venice were constituted; to place it in a strong position, and so to fortify it that no one will dream of taking it by a sudden assault; and, on the other hand, not to make it so large as to appear formidable to its neighbors. It should in this way be able to enjoy its form of government for a long time. For war is made on a commonwealth for two reasons: to subjugate it, and for fear of being subjugated by it.”

– Niccoló Machiavelli

Niccoló Machiavelli on Use of Force Quotes

Niccolò Machiavelli’s quote advocates for a specific model of governance to ensure the longevity and stability of a republic. He proposes structuring it akin to the resilient societies of Sparta and Venice: fortified and strategically positioned to deter external threats, yet modest in size to avoid provoking neighboring powers. Machiavelli believes that such a republic, both defensively strong and diplomatically non-threatening, can maintain its sovereignty and preferred form of government over time. By understanding the motivations behind warfare—to dominate or prevent domination—he underscores the importance of balance and strategic positioning in preserving a republic’s autonomy and longevity amidst geopolitical pressures.

 

Niccoló Machiavelli

“You must know, then, that there are two methods of fighting, one with laws, the other with force: the first one is proper to man, the second to beasts; but because the first one often does not suffice, one has to have recourse to the second. Therefore, it is necessary for a prince to know well how to use the beast and the man.”

– Niccoló Machiavelli

Niccoló Machiavelli on Use of Force Quotes

Niccolò Machiavelli’s quote delineates the dual nature of power: the use of laws, symbolizing the civilized aspect of governance, and the application of force, representing a more primal and brutish approach. Machiavelli acknowledges that while the rule of law is preferable, there are times when coercion becomes necessary. He asserts that effective leadership demands an understanding of both methods, blending the attributes of a rational ruler with the instincts of a formidable force. Machiavelli’s pragmatism here suggests that a successful prince must possess the versatility to employ both tactics judiciously, recognizing when to wield authority and when to resort to strength.

 

Victor Davis Hanson

“I believe that human nature is constant. It’s like water – it doesn’t change. The pump changes. The delivery system changes. But there’s always going to be evil in the world. And what creates deterrence and allows innocent people in the world not to end up like those in the Balkans, in Rwanda, or the Hutus is not the utopian idea that you can eliminate war. But the realistic and pragmatic idea that you have to have military force to prevent killers from killing the innocent.”

– Victor Davis Hanson

Victor Davis Hanson on Use of Force Quotes

In this quote, Victor Davis Hanson asserts that human nature remains unchanged over time, akin to the constancy of water. He contends that while the methods and mechanisms of delivering evil may evolve, the underlying propensity for malevolence persists. Hanson advocates for a pragmatic approach to maintaining peace and deterring atrocities, emphasizing the necessity of military force. He rejects utopian notions of eradicating conflict and instead emphasizes the role of robust military capabilities in preventing the victimization of the innocent. Hanson’s perspective underscores the importance of realistic and proactive measures to safeguard against the perpetual presence of evil in the world.

 

Francisco José de Paula Santander

“Colombianos las armas os han dado la independencia, las leyes os darán la libertad.”

“Colombians arms have given us independence, laws will give us liberty.”

– Francisco José de Paula Santander

Francisco José de Paula Santander on Use of Force Quotes

Francisco José de Paula Santander’s quote encapsulates a pivotal moment in Colombian history, emphasizing the transition from armed struggle to the establishment of laws and institutions for lasting freedom. It acknowledges the role of warfare in achieving independence while emphasizing the importance of governance and legal frameworks in securing liberty. Santander urges Colombians to embrace the rule of law as the foundation for their continued freedom, recognizing that while arms may have broken the chains of colonial oppression, it is through the implementation of just laws and institutions that true and enduring liberty is realized.

 

Curtis Lemay

On the all-out bombing campaign the U.S. didn’t do at the beginning of the Korean War:

“So we go on and don’t do it, and let the war go on. Over a period of 3 and a half or four years, we did burn down every town in North Korea. And every town in South Korea. And what? Killed off 20% of the Korean population. What I’m trying to say is, once you make a decision to use military force to solve your problem – then you ought to use it. And use an overwhelming military force.  Use too much. And deliberately use too much. So that you don’t make an error on the other side, and not quite have enough. And you roll over everything to start with. And you close it down just like that. You save resources. You save lives. Not only your own but the enemies too. And the recovery is quicker. And everybody is back to peaceful existence – hopefully in a shorter period of time.”

– Curtis Lemay at the 2hr 57m mark of Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History episode “The Destroyer of Worlds”

Curtis Lemay on Use of Force Quotes

In this quote, Curtis LeMay reflects on the decision-making process regarding the all-out bombing campaign during the Korean War. He advocates for the use of overwhelming military force when engaging in conflict, arguing that it leads to quicker resolution and saves lives on both sides. LeMay emphasizes the importance of decisiveness and the necessity of utilizing excessive force to ensure victory and minimize prolonged suffering. His perspective underscores the pragmatic approach of employing maximum military power to swiftly end hostilities and facilitate a return to peace, promoting efficiency and minimizing the human cost of war.

 

Smedley Butler

“There are only two things we should fight for. One is the defense of our homes and the other is the Bill of Rights.”

– Smedley Butler

Smedley Butler on Use of Force Quotes

Smedley Butler’s quote succinctly articulates his philosophy on the principles worth fighting for. He asserts that there are only two causes worth engaging in conflict: defending one’s homeland and safeguarding the fundamental rights enshrined in the Bill of Rights. As a decorated Marine Corps general turned anti-war activist, Butler emphasizes the importance of protecting both physical territory and the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution. His statement encapsulates a commitment to defending not just land, but also the democratic ideals and liberties that define a just society, reflecting his deep-rooted belief in the values of democracy and individual rights.

 

Quotes About Self Defense

Ayn Rand

“The necessary consequence of man’s right to life is his right to self-defense. In a civilized society, force may be used only in retaliation and only against those who initiate its use. All the reasons which make the initiation of physical force an evil, make the retaliatory use of physical force a moral imperative.”

“If some ‘pacifist’ society renounced the retaliatory use of force, it would be left helplessly at the mercy of the first thug who decided to be immoral. Such a society would achieve the opposite of its intention: instead of abolishing evil, it would encourage and reward it.”

– Ayn Rand

Ayn Rand on Use of Force Quotes

Ayn Rand’s quote illuminates the moral imperative behind the right to self-defense. She argues that the right to life inherently entails the right to protect oneself from harm. In a civilized society, force should only be used in retaliation against those who initiate aggression. Rand asserts that renouncing the use of force, even in self-defense, would leave a society vulnerable to exploitation by immoral individuals. Such pacifism, she contends, paradoxically rewards evil and undermines the very goal of abolishing it. Rand’s perspective underscores the necessity of a balanced approach to self-defense, recognizing it as a fundamental aspect of preserving justice and individual rights.

 

Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Nature has made up her mind that what cannot defend itself shall not be defended.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson onUse of Force Quotes

Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quote encapsulates the harsh reality of nature’s law: only those capable of defending themselves are deserving of defense. Emerson suggests that in the natural world, strength and the ability to protect oneself are paramount. This sentiment reflects a Darwinian view of survival, where weakness invites vulnerability and eventual demise. Emerson’s observation underscores the importance of self-reliance and resilience in navigating life’s challenges. It serves as a reminder that in both nature and society, those who cannot fend for themselves may find themselves at the mercy of stronger forces, highlighting the imperative of personal empowerment and fortitude.

 

Maynard James Keenan

“Human beings are capable – every one of us – of awful shit against each other, to ourselves, and because of that, we kind of have to arm ourselves against our darker side. We have to understand that there are monsters, and we need to arm ourselves against the monsters, whether they’re our own monsters or someone else’s monsters. So I absolutely am in support of arming yourself or doing whatever we have to do to preserve our way of life.”

– Maynard James Keenan

Maynard James Keenan on Use of Force Quotes

Maynard James Keenan’s quote delves into the complexities of human nature, acknowledging the capacity for both greatness and darkness within each individual. He asserts that due to this inherent duality, it is necessary to arm oneself against the potential for harm, whether from within or from external sources. Keenan emphasizes the importance of recognizing and confronting the existence of “monsters,” whether they manifest as internal struggles or external threats. His stance advocates for personal empowerment and preparedness as essential safeguards against the darker aspects of human behavior, underscoring the imperative of protecting one’s way of life in a world marked by inherent unpredictability and potential danger.

 

Alexandre Dumas

“There are no creatures that walk the earth, not even those animals we have labelled cowards, which will not show courage when required to defend themselves.”

– Alexandre Dumas, The Vicomte de Bragelonne

Alexandre Dumas on Use of Force Quotes

In this quote from Alexandre Dumas’s “The Vicomte de Bragelonne,” the author reflects on the universal instinct for self-preservation. Dumas suggests that even creatures typically associated with cowardice will display courage when faced with a threat to their survival. This observation underscores the primal nature of courage, transcending labels and preconceptions. Whether human or animal, when pushed to defend themselves or their territory, beings will summon the bravery necessary to confront danger. Dumas’s insight highlights the innate resilience and determination present across the natural world, reinforcing the notion that courage emerges as a fundamental response to the imperative of self-defense.