On the Magistrates and Republic of Venice

Indeed, the practice of virtue shines forth both in the duties of war and in the functions of peace. And yet, although the praise of war and the entire military system are necessary for states both for preserving liberty and for protecting borders, and even possess much dignity and splendor, nevertheless the common sense of men rejects the idea that military duties—by which slaughter and the destruction of mortals are primarily brought about—are to be sought after for their own sake, and that all other civil functions should be subordinated to them. Indeed, it would be the mark of a cruel nature, or rather of a man abhorrent to humanity, to desire battles, slaughter, and conflagrations, if only for this reason: that he might be famous in military matters, or even, if it pleased him, that he might obtain the praise of a supreme commander. Therefore, all philosophers of note have agreed upon this opinion: that war is to be sought for the sake of peace, and that every function of military virtue and all military praise should be referred to the duties of peace. Therefore, he who governs the public...