Quote by Walter Bagehot
So long as war is the main business of nations, temporary despotism - despotism during the campaign - is indispensable.
Summary
This quote suggests that during times of war, it is necessary for temporary despotism to be implemented. In the context of nations engaged in conflicts, strong authority and control may be required to effectively coordinate military campaigns and protect national interests. This temporary despotism implies a concentration of power and potentially limiting individual freedoms, but it is deemed indispensable for the successful execution of war strategies. Essentially, the quote emphasizes the importance of strong leadership and centralized decision-making in times of armed conflict.