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Man-made death became epidemic in the twentieth century…

“Man-made death became epidemic in the twentieth century because increasingly efficient killing technologies made the extreme exercise of national sovereignty pathological.” quote by Richard Rhodes
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““Man-made death became epidemic in the twentieth century because increasingly efficient killing technologies made the extreme exercise of national sovereignty pathological.””

Richard Rhodes

About This Quote

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

Technological advances made killing more efficient, turning state power into a pathological force causing mass death.

In simple terms: Modern weapons make state killing widespread and abnormal.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and limit destructive tech.

Themes

war technology ethics state power

Mood

somber critical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • military planning
  • human rights advocacy
  • academic research

Key Concepts

military-industrial complex mass destruction sovereignty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does technology change the morality of war?
  • What limits should societies place on lethal innovation?
A Different Perspective

The quote may overlook non‑state actors and other causes of death.

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