America Quote by Arundhati Roy
“When you think of how much violence, how much blood... how much has been destroyed to create the great nations, America, Australia, Britain, Germany, France, Belgium - even India, Pakistan. Having destroyed so much to make them, we must have nuclear weapons to protect them - and climate change to hold up their way of life... a two-pronged annihilation project.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Climate and Nuclear Threats, 2020
The quote links historical violent nation‑building with modern threats, suggesting a paradox of protection through destruction.
In simple terms: Past violence built nations; now we protect them with nukes and climate denial.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address the contradictions in our security policies.
Themes
history
violence
environment
politics
ethics
Mood
concerned
urgent
Type
political
activist
When to use this quote
- policy debate
- activism
- education
- international relations
Key Concepts
colonialism
military power
climate crisis
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we reconcile security with sustainability?
- What alternatives exist to nuclear deterrence?
A Different Perspective
Solutions require systemic change, not just new weapons.
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