Aquinas Just War Quotes & Sayings

How is it they live in such harmony, the billions of stars, when most men can barely go a minute without declaring war in their minds? — Thomas Aquinas

Thomas Aquinas put forward the basis of modern just war theory, suggesting that war cannot be fought for personal gain and must be waged by a legitimate body, and that the overriding motive must be to secure peace. — DK Publishing

In order for a war to be just, three things are necessary. First, the authority of the sovereign. Secondly, a just cause. Thirdly, a rightful intention. — Thomas Aquinas

Further, nothing, except sin, is contrary to an act of virtue. But war is contrary to peace. Therefore war is always a sin. — Thomas Aquinas