Cicero's Quotes and War

Cicero


Everyone has the obligation to ponder well his own specific traits of character. He must also regulate them adequately and not wonder whether someone else's traits might suit him better. The more definitely his own a man's character is, the better it fits him.

Laws are silent in times of war.


Let your desires be ruled by reason.


The revolution in Egypt is disturbing to many, because such "mob" behavior disturbs peace and assures that "costs far outweigh" initial benefit. One must be sure that the costs will bring benefit to a society, before one considers such hard decisions.
 
One thing for sure, Cicero believed that one should be discrete in going to war. War should be evaluated based on one's enemies, and whether they are merciful, or barbarian. I think his wisdom still holds sway over our military and its educational institutions. War is never the response of a civilized society, it is a last resort to protect the interests of its citizens, and it interests.