"The reason and end for which man was made thus liable to this passion (sudden anger), is, that he might be better qualified to prevent, and likewise (or perhaps chiefly) to resist and defeat sudden force, violence, and opposition, considered merely as such, and without regard to the fault or demerit of him who is the author of them. Yet, since violence may be considered in this other and further view, as implying fault; and since injury, as distinct from harm, may raise sudden anger, sudden anger may likewise accidentally serve to prevent, or remedy, such fault and injury. But, considered as distinct from settled anger, it stands in our nature for self-defence, and not for the administration of justice. There are plainly cases, and in the uncultivated parts of the world, and where regular governments are not formed, they frequently happen, in which there is no time for consideration, and yet to be passive is certain destruction; in which-sudden resistance is the only security."
---- Joseph Butler - Fifteen Sermons Preached at the Rolls Chapel - Sermon VIII. Upon Resentment and Forgiveness of injuries--Matt. v. 43, 44.
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