Believe Quote by George W. Bush
“The principle I believe in is the principle of protecting our nation. I believe that the United States has the right to attack any country it views as a threat at a time and place of its choosing.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 2002 State of the Union Address, United States, 2002
The speaker asserts a doctrine that the nation may preemptively strike any perceived threat anywhere at any time.
In simple terms: America can attack any threat anywhere, anytime.
Consider the costs of preemptive war.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- foreign policy debates
- military planning
- international law
- public opinion
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is preemptive force ever justified?
- What safeguards prevent abuse?
Preemptive action can provoke escalation and undermine global stability.