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The notion that you do not negotiate with terrorists is…

“The notion that you do not negotiate with terrorists is not the history of humanity or of the world.” quote by Juan Manuel Santos
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“The notion that you do not negotiate with terrorists is not the history of humanity or of the world.”

Juan Manuel Santos

About This Quote

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

Negotiating with terrorists contradicts historical precedent of refusing to legitimize violence.

In simple terms: Negotiating with terrorists goes against history.

Key Takeaway

Avoid giving legitimacy to violent actors.

Themes

politics conflict ethics

Mood

cautious serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • international negotiations
  • peace talks
  • policy making

Key Concepts

diplomacy legitimacy terrorism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can dialogue ever be justified with violent groups?
  • What are alternatives to negotiation?
A Different Perspective

Negotiations may be needed to save lives, creating moral dilemmas.

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“It is our policy not to negotiate with terrorists." I stared at the phone, my eyes wide. I was speechless and very, very angry. "Are you still there?" The voice belonged to an unnamed official in the NSA. Perston‐Smythe introduced him as one of Cox's supervisors. "What the fuck do you mean by that?" "It is the policy of this government not to negotiate with terrorists." "Do you mean to tell me that you consider me a terrorist?" He sounded almost prim. "Certainly. You've taken a hostage." "Terrorists," I said, gritting my teeth, "attack the innocent to achieve their goals. If you're about to tell me that you consider Cox an innocent bystander, then this conversation is over." "Terrorists are—" "Oh, fuck it! You want a terrorist action so you can consider me a terrorist? There's no way you can keep me out of your nuclear arsenals. Where do you want the first one to go off? The Pentagon? The White House? The Capitol building? How about Moscow or Kiev? Wouldn't that be interesting? Do you think they'd launch?" His voice was a lot less prim. "You wouldn't do that." "Well, as a matter of fact, I wouldn't. BECAUSE I'M NOT A TERRORIST!" I slammed the phone down on the hook and jumped.”

Steven Gould

“Are you ready to release Millie Harrison?" "We don't negotiate with terrorists." "I'm not a terrorist." I said it tiredly. "Besides, that's bullshit. The U.S. has always negotiated with terrorists, no matter what it's said. Why do you think we sold arms to Iran?" "Release Brian Cox. We'll think about it." "Millie Harrison is being illegally held. Brian Cox kidnapped her. Who is the terrorist? Who is attacking the innocent? Release her and I'll give you back Cox." I hung up.”

Steven Gould

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