A nation, therefore, has no right to say to a province…
“A nation, therefore, has no right to say to a province: You belong to me, I want to take you. A province consists of its inhabitants. If anybody has a right to be heard in this case it is these inhabitants. Boundary disputes should be settled by plebiscite.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Self‑determination belongs to people, not distant rulers; borders should be decided by the inhabitants themselves.
In simple terms: People decide their own fate; votes settle borders.
Key Takeaway
Let people choose their own affiliation.
Themes
self‑determination
political legitimacy
democracy
Mood
reflective
political
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- regional referendums
- independence movements
- local governance
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
social contract
sovereignty
plebiscite
Questions to Reflect On
- Who should have the final say on borders?
- How to protect minorities in a vote?
A Different Perspective
Complexities of minority rights and external pressures can complicate plebiscites.