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Forever Quote by John Mearsheimer

“Great powers must be forever vigilant and never subordinate survival to any other goal, including prosperity.” quote by John Mearsheimer
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“Great powers must be forever vigilant and never subordinate survival to any other goal, including prosperity.”

John Mearsheimer

About This Quote

Source Book: The Tragedy of Great Power Politics, 2001

Powerful states must constantly prioritize security over other aims, even wealth.

In simple terms: Never trade safety for prosperity.

Key Takeaway

Keep security first.

Themes

security power priorities

Mood

cautious serious

Type

political strategic

When to use this quote

  • foreign policy
  • defense budgeting
  • national strategy

Key Concepts

realism geopolitics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance safety and wealth?
  • What risks arise when security is ignored?
A Different Perspective

Security can limit economic growth.

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