Community Quote by Condoleezza Rice
“Let me let you in on a little secret. There is no such thing as an international community. There are self-maximizing, self-interested states that will push their interests as far as possible.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks at the 2005 World Economic Forum, Davos, Switzerland
The quote asserts that nations act primarily out of self‑interest, lacking a true global community.
In simple terms: Nations prioritize self‑interest over global unity.
Key Takeaway
Recognize realpolitik in international relations.
Themes
politics
realism
international relations
self‑interest
state behavior
Mood
cautious
analytical
skeptical
Type
political
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- diplomatic negotiations
- trade agreements
- global crises
- foreign policy formulation
Key Concepts
nationalism
power dynamics
zero‑sum thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do alliances form despite self‑interest?
- What incentives could foster genuine global cooperation?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all states are uniformly self‑maximizing, ignoring cooperative alliances.
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