You must know there are two ways of contesting, the one by the law, the other by force; the first method is proper to men, the second to beasts; but because the first is frequently not sufficient, it is necessary to have recourse to the second.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Humans use law but must use force like beasts when law is insufficient. Sometimes violence is necessary to achieve goals.
- In plain terms
- Use laws when possible, but be ready to use force when they fail.
- What can you take from it?
- Force is necessary when legal methods are insufficient.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is force justified?
- Can rules always solve problems?
Another view
Relying on force undermines long-term legitimacy.
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