Claims Quote by Christian Lous Lange
“For the state by its nature claims sovereignty, the right to an unlimited development of power, determined only by self-interest. It is by nature anarchistic.”
About This Quote
The statement argues that a state’s claim to limitless power, driven solely by self‑interest, inherently leads to anarchic conditions.
In simple terms: Unlimited power breeds chaos.
Key Takeaway
Self‑interest without limits destabilizes societies.
Themes
political theory
sovereignty
anarchism
power dynamics
Mood
critical
cautious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- international negotiations
- constitutional reforms
- policy debates on state authority
Key Concepts
state legitimacy
interest theory
Practical Applications
- Introduce checks on state power
- Encourage multilateral governance structures
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms prevent state overreach?
- How does self‑interest shape global cooperation?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that limited, well‑defined sovereignty can coexist with order.
