"和平通常是一个伟大的善,通常它与正义相一致,但应当约束一个国家的良知的是正义而非和平,正如它应当约束个人的良知一样;既不是国家也不是个人能够背离正义。"
— Theodore Roosevelt
Simplified Meaning:
Imagine you have a friend who always tries to avoid arguments, even if it means allowing others to do the wrong thing. They think keeping peace is the best thing to do, but sometimes, staying silent can let bad things happen. This quote suggests that doing what is right (righteousness) is more important than keeping things calm (peace). For example, if you see someone being bullied, saying nothing might keep the peace, but standing up for the victim is the righteous action. Similarly, a country should prioritize doing the right thing over simply avoiding conflict. Whether it's a person or a nation, the conscience, or sense of right and wrong, should be guided by righteousness. So, while peace is good, doing what is right is crucial for a true, honest conscience.