In order for a war to be just, three things are necessary. First, the authority of the sovereign. Secondly, a just cause. Thirdly, a rightful intention.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote delves into the concept of a just war, presenting three essential components that are necessary for a war to be morally justified. It outlines the criteria for evaluating the ethical legitimacy of engaging in armed conflict.
The first requirement stated is the authority of the sovereign. This suggests that a war must be initiated by a legitimate governing body or authority that has the rightful power to declare war on behalf of its constituents. It emphasizes the importance of having a recognized and legitimate decision-making entity to ensure that the use of force is authorized and sanctioned within the established governance structure.
The second criterion is a just cause. This implies that a war must have a valid and morally defensible reason for its initiation. It suggests that there should be a clear justification based on principles such as self-defense, protection of innocent lives, or the preservation of essential values and freedoms. A just cause entails a situation in which the potential benefits of engaging in warfare outweigh the potential harm caused by the conflict.
The third requirement mentioned is a rightful intention. This implies that the objective of the war must be oriented towards achieving a just outcome or resolution. It suggests that the intention behind engaging in armed conflict should be rooted in promoting peace, justice, or the protection of basic human rights. A rightful intention ensures that the use of force is guided by ethical considerations and seeks to establish a more equitable and stable future.
Overall, this quote highlights the complex moral considerations surrounding the justification of war. It emphasizes the need for a legitimate governing authority, a just cause, and a rightful intention to ensure that armed conflict aligns with ethical principles. By setting these criteria, it invites critical analysis and reflection on the moral implications of engaging in warfare, encouraging a thoughtful evaluation of the circumstances under which war may be morally justified.
Who said the quote?
The quote "In order for a war to be just, three things are necessary. First, the authority of the sovereign. Secondly, a just cause. Thirdly, a rightful intention." was said by Thomas Aquinas (Bio / Quotes). Thomas Aquinas was a medieval Italian philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work "Summa Theologica.
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Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
