But it is necessary for us to commence with a glance at the nature of the whole, because it is particularly necessary that in the consideration of any of the parts their relation to the whole should be kept constantly in view. We propose to consider first the single elements of our subject, then each branch or part, and, last of all, the whole, in all its relations-therefore to advance from the simple to the complex. But however powerfully this may react on political views in particular cases, still it must always be regarded as only a modification of them for the political view is the object, War is the means, and the means must always include the object in our conception. That the tendencies and views of policy shall not be incompatible with these means, the Art of War in general and the Commander in each particular case may demand, and this claim is truly not a trifling one. All beyond this which is strictly peculiar to War relates merely to the peculiar nature of the means which it uses. We see, therefore, that War is not merely a political act, but also a real political instrument, a continuation of political commerce, a carrying out of the same by other means.
WAR IS A MERE CONTINUATION OF POLICY BY OTHER MEANS. This chapter contains Clausewitz's most famous saying about war, that it is the continuation of politics (policy) by other means. Maude, in Three Volumes (London: Kegan Paul, Trench, Trubner & C., 1918). New and Revised edition with Introduction and Notes by Col. Source: Carl von Clausewitz, On War, trans.
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