The Nation, which indulges towards another an habitual…
““The Nation, which indulges towards another an habitual hatred, or an habitual fondness, is in some degree a slave. It is a slave to its animosity or to its affection, either of which is sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and its interest. ... The Nation, prompted by ill-will and resentment, sometimes impels to war the Government, contrary to the best calculations of policy. The Government sometimes participates in the national propensity, and adopts through passion what reason would reject; at other times, it makes the animosity of the nation subservient to projects of hostility instigated by pride, ambition, and other sinister and pernicious motives. The peace often, sometimes perhaps the liberty, of Nations has been the victim.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A nation’s emotional attachments—hatred or affection—can enslave it, leading to irrational policies and war, undermining liberty and peace.
In simple terms: Emotions can dominate national decisions.
Key Takeaway
Guard against collective bias.
Themes
politics
emotion
war
freedom
leadership
Mood
cautionary
serious
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- diplomacy
- public discourse
- education
Key Concepts
Collective psychology
national interest
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can keep policy rational?
- How can societies temper collective passions?
A Different Perspective
Rational debate may be suppressed by strong sentiment.