One of these is the declared right, inherent in each individual, to take the life of an assailant in order to save his own life,--compendiously called the Right of Self-Defence, usually recognized by philosophers and publicists as founded in Nature and the instincts of men.
This quote discusses the philosophical justification for self-defense as a natural right recognized by society.
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More from Charles Sumner
Tendencies of nations, as revealed in history, teach that our aims are in harmony with prevailing laws, which God, in his benevolence, has ordained for mankind.
I agree with the Convention in the importance of the new organization; nor do I think there are many candid persons, recognizing morals as the soul of all true politics, who will hesitate in this conclusion.
Let loyalty to one man be exchanged for Love to Man.
Their existence is a disgrace to civilization; for it implies the common consent of nations to the Arbitrament of War, as regulated by these laws.
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