Introduction

Force is a physical power; I do not see how its effects could produce morality. To yield to force is an act of necessity, not of will; it is at best an act of prudence. In what sense can it be a moral duty? … If force compels obedience, there is no need to invoke a duty to obey, and if force ceases to compel obedience, there is no longer any obligation … Surely it must be admitted, then, that might does not make right, and that the duty of obedience is owed only to legitimate powers.