Aeroplanes Quote by John Brisben Walker
“As a peace machine, it's value to the world will be beyond computation. Would a declaration of war between Russia and Japan be made, if within an hour there after a swifty gliding aeroplane might take its flight from St Petersburg and drop half a ton of dynamite above the enemy's war offices? Could any nation afford to war upon any other with such hazards in view?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Early 20th century speculative writing on warfare
The writer envisions a future where a single aircraft could deliver massive destruction, making war untenable.
In simple terms: A plane could drop tons of explosives, ending war.
Key Takeaway
Consider the impact of advanced weapons.
Themes
technology
war
ethics
Mood
cautionary
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- military planning
- peace advocacy
- policy making
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
deterrence
strategic balance
Questions to Reflect On
- Is deterrence enough?
- What alternatives exist to war?
A Different Perspective
Such weapons raise moral and escalation concerns.
![“it [is] possible to suppose that, if Russia is allowed to have peace, an amazing industrial development may take place, making Russia a rival of the United States.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e81/bertrand-russell-69_development_it-is-possible-to-suppose-that-if-russia_1472906.jpg)
