Skip to content

Affair Quote by George Orwell

“While the game of deadlocks and bottle-necks goes on, another more serious game is also being played. It is governed by two axioms. One is that there can be no peace without a general surrender of sovereignty: the other is that no country capable of defending its sovereignty ever surrenders it. If…” quote by George Orwell
Download Open image
“While the game of deadlocks and bottle-necks goes on, another more serious game is also being played. It is governed by two axioms. One is that there can be no peace without a general surrender of sovereignty: the other is that no country capable of defending its sovereignty ever surrenders it. If one keeps these axioms in mind one can generally see the relevant facts in international affairs through the smoke-screen with which the newspapers surround them.”

George Orwell

About This Quote

Source Essay: Politics and the English Language, 1946

Power dynamics in international relations are shaped by sovereignty and the impossibility of peace without surrender, revealing hidden motives behind media narratives.

In simple terms: Sovereignty prevents peace without surrender, media hides true motives.

Key Takeaway

Question the narratives and consider sovereignty's role.

Themes

politics sovereignty media international relations

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

critical political

When to use this quote

  • diplomatic negotiations
  • policy analysis
  • media literacy
  • geopolitical strategy

Key Concepts

realism power dynamics media framing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does media shape your view of international conflicts?
  • Can peace be achieved without surrender?
A Different Perspective

Sovereignty can be compromised by internal pressures, limiting the axiom.

2.3 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by George Orwell

Explore all 1,657 George Orwell quotes

More Affair quotes

Browse all 2,218 Affair quotes