Our discussion has shown that while in war many different roads can lead to the goal, to the attainment of the political object, fighting is the only possible means.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Political goals in war can only be achieved through actual fighting.
- In plain terms
- To win a war's objective, you must fight.
- What can you take from it?
- Combat is the only way to achieve political aims in war.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can political goals be met without force?
- What is the true purpose of war?
Another view
Diplomacy can sometimes achieve goals without fighting.
More from Karl von Clausewitz
Blind aggressiveness would destroy the attack itself, not the defense.
Permalink to quote #14 Any complex activity, if it is to be carried on with any degree of virtuosity, calls for appropriate gifts of intellect and temperament. If they are outstandin…
Permalink to quote #16 ...the side that feels the lesser urge for peace will naturally get the better bargain.
Permalink to quote #13
Related quotes
The occupation of Iraq is completely self-perpetuating: The worse things get the more we are obliged to stay. And the longer we stay the worse things get. Wond…
Andrew SullivanAndrew Sullivan quote #12 It is not wise warfare to throw your ammunition to the enemy unless you throw it from the cannon's mouth. But if you can compel the enemy to waste his ammuniti…
Benjamin TuckerBenjamin Tucker quote #34 One cannot think that blind bravery gives victory over the enemy.
Alexander SuvorovAlexander Suvorov quote #1