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Nuclear weapons Quote by Frank Herbert

“House Corrino would not risk such a holocaust. They were undoubtedly sincere in subscribing to the argument that nuclear weapons were a reserve held for one purpose: defense of humankind should a threatening “other intelligence” ever be encountered.” quote by Frank Herbert
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““House Corrino would not risk such a holocaust. They were undoubtedly sincere in subscribing to the argument that nuclear weapons were a reserve held for one purpose: defense of humankind should a threatening “other intelligence” ever be encountered.””

Frank Herbert

About This Quote

Source Novel: Dune, 1965

The Corrino family avoids using nuclear weapons, believing they should only be a last‑resort defense against an alien threat, reflecting cautious power ethics.

In simple terms: They think nukes are only for defending humanity from dangerous aliens.

Key Takeaway

Use extreme weapons only as a last resort.

Themes

power ethics defense

Mood

cautious strategic

Type

science‑fiction philosophical

When to use this quote

  • military strategy
  • government policy
  • interstellar diplomacy

Key Concepts

nuclear deterrence political caution alien contact

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it wise to reserve all power for hypothetical enemies?
  • What alternatives exist for planetary defense?
A Different Perspective

Reliance on deterrence may limit preparedness for non‑alien threats.

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