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Activist Quote by Bertrand Russell

“One must expect a war between U.S.A. and U.S.S.R. which will begin with the total destruction of London. I think the war will last 30 years, and leave a world without civilised people, from which everything will have to build afresh-a process taking say 500 years. Stated just one month after the…” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“One must expect a war between U.S.A. and U.S.S.R. which will begin with the total destruction of London. I think the war will last 30 years, and leave a world without civilised people, from which everything will have to build afresh-a process taking say 500 years. Stated just one month after the Hiroshima atomic explosion. Russell became one of the best-known antinuclear activists of his era.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public lecture on nuclear war, 1945

Predicts a catastrophic war between superpowers leading to massive destruction and a long rebuilding period

In simple terms: War will cause massive destruction and a long recovery

Key Takeaway

Advocate for nuclear disarmament and peace

Themes

war nuclear future humanity

Mood

cautious serious

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • education
  • peace activism
  • global security

Key Concepts

politics history ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can prevent such a war?
  • How does fear shape policy?
A Different Perspective

The prediction may be exaggerated; diplomatic efforts can prevent war

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