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The [George W.] Bush administration marked a very serious…

“The [George W.] Bush administration marked a very serious and profoundly negative turning point - not just for the nation, but for the international order, because we started to govern on the idea of "might makes right." And that's a very old, toxic and infectious idea.” quote by Edward Snowden
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“The [George W.] Bush administration marked a very serious and profoundly negative turning point - not just for the nation, but for the international order, because we started to govern on the idea of "might makes right." And that's a very old, toxic and infectious idea.”

Edward Snowden

About This Quote

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

He warns that the Bush era embraced a dangerous belief that power justifies actions, harming global stability.

In simple terms: Power should not excuse wrongdoing.

Key Takeaway

Reject might‑makes‑right logic.

Themes

politics ethics international relations

Mood

cautious critical

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • diplomacy
  • human rights advocacy

Key Concepts

realism moral philosophy power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does power influence moral judgments?
  • What safeguards can prevent might‑makes‑right thinking?
A Different Perspective

Such belief can be entrenched in institutions, making change hard.

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