Bangs Quote by Isaac Asimov
“Every period of human development has had its own particular type of human conflict---its own variety of problem that, apparently, could be settled only by force. And each time, frustratingly enough, force never really settled the problem. Instead, it persisted through a series of conflicts, then vanished of itself---what's the expression---ah, yes, 'not with a bang, but a whimper,' as the economic and social environment changed. And then, new problems, and a new series of wars.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Foundation and Empire, Isaac Asimov, 1952
Human history repeats cycles of conflict where force temporarily resolves issues but underlying problems persist, leading to new wars as societies evolve.
In simple terms: Force only offers temporary fixes; deeper issues linger.
Address root causes, not just symptoms.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- policy reform
- education
- community building
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies address underlying causes of conflict?
- What alternatives to force exist for lasting peace?
Force alone cannot eradicate systemic problems.