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What's the use of a lague of nations if it's to be…

“What's the use of a lague of nations if it's to be dominated by Great Britain and her colonies?" said Mr. Rasmussen sourly. "But don't you think any kind of a league's better than nothing?" said Eveline. "It's not the name you give things, it's who's getting theirs underneath that counts," said…” quote by John Dos Passos
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““What's the use of a lague of nations if it's to be dominated by Great Britain and her colonies?" said Mr. Rasmussen sourly. "But don't you think any kind of a league's better than nothing?" said Eveline. "It's not the name you give things, it's who's getting theirs underneath that counts," said Robbins. "That's a very cynical remark," said the California woman. "This isn't any time to be cynical." "This is a time," said Robbins, "when if we weren't cynical we'd shoot ourselves.””

John Dos Passos

About This Quote

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

Questioning the value of international bodies when dominated by powerful nations, highlighting cynicism versus pragmatism.

In simple terms: International cooperation may be flawed but still useful.

Key Takeaway

Weil pragmatic alliances despite flaws.

Themes

politics power idealism cynicism

Mood

skeptical reflective

Type

critical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • foreign policy debates
  • NGO collaborations
  • colonial history discussions
  • diplomatic negotiations

Key Concepts

realism political theory strategic compromise

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are all alliances worthless if imperfect?
  • When does pragmatism become complacency?
A Different Perspective

Cynicism can undermine constructive engagement.

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