Skip to content

The sovereign state has in our times become a lethal…

“The sovereign state has in our times become a lethal danger to human civilization because technical developments enable it to employ an infinite number and variety of means of destruction.” quote by Christian Lous Lange
Download Open image
“The sovereign state has in our times become a lethal danger to human civilization because technical developments enable it to employ an infinite number and variety of means of destruction.”

Christian Lous Lange

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Modern nation‑states wield technology that can cause unprecedented destruction, threatening humanity's survival.

In simple terms: States use tech to threaten humanity.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and limit dangerous state powers.

Themes

politics technology security ethics

Mood

anxious concerned

Type

political warning

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • international law
  • civil society activism
  • academic research

Key Concepts

deterrence global governance weaponization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can global institutions curb state‑driven destruction?
  • What role should citizens play in monitoring state power?
A Different Perspective

Even powerful states may resist constraints, making enforcement hard.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Christian Lous Lange

Explore all 39 Christian Lous Lange quotes

More Civilization quotes

Browse all 4,084 Civilization quotes