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To introduce into the philosophy of War itself a principle of moderation would be an absurdity.

— Carl von Clausewitz On War (1832)

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Notes from Wikiquote

As quoted in The Campaign of 1914 in France and Belgium‎ (1915) by George Herbert Perris, p. 56

Variants

To introduce into the philosophy of war a principle of moderation would be an absurdity.

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Philosophy

More quotes by Carl von Clausewitz

Every suspension of offensive action, either from erroneous views, from fear or from indolence, is in favor of the side acting defensively.

On War (1832)

War is such a dangerous business that mistakes that come from kindness are the very worst.

On War (1832)

The Conqueror is always a lover of peace: he would prefer to take over our country unopposed.

On War (1832)

A general who allows himself to be decisively defeated in an extended mountain position deserves to be court-martialled.

On War (1832)

War is an act of violence pushed to its utmost bounds.

On War (1832)

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Attribution

Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: Carl von Clausewitz (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.