Full Idea
As soon as the kings took control [of the Hebrews] the reason for going to war was no longer peace and liberty but rather glory,
Gist of Idea
Kings tend to fight wars for glory, rather than for peace and liberty
Source
Baruch de Spinoza (Tractatus Theologico-Politicus [1670], 18.05)
Book Reference
Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Theological-Political Treatise', ed/tr. Israel,Jonathan [CUP 2007], p.233
A Reaction
As Spinoza was writing, Louis XIV had just invaded Holland, solely in quest of military glory. As soon as a leader like Napoleon discovers they are good at war, I assume that the thrill of glory takes over for them too.