Bringing peace Quote by Kenneth Minogue
![“Their [realists'] concern is that utopian aspirations towards a new peaceful world order will simply absolutize conflicts and make them more intractable. National interests are in some degree negotiable; rights, in principle, are not. International organizations such as the United Nations have not…” quote by Kenneth Minogue](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/93f/kenneth-minogue-28215_bringing-peace_their-realists-concern-is-that-utopian-a_516332.jpg)
““Their [realists'] concern is that utopian aspirations towards a new peaceful world order will simply absolutize conflicts and make them more intractable. National interests are in some degree negotiable; rights, in principle, are not. International organizations such as the United Nations have not been conspicuously successful in bringing peace, and it is likely that the states of the world would become extremely nervous of any move to give the UN the overwhelming power needed to do this.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Political Thought of the New Right, Kenneth Minogue, 1995
Utopian peace projects can intensify conflicts by imposing absolute solutions, while national interests can be negotiated but rights remain non‑negotiable; the UN lacks sufficient power to enforce peace.
In simple terms: Idealistic peace plans may worsen disputes; rights are non‑negotiable; UN is limited.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of idealism and strengthen realistic negotiation.
Themes
politics
conflict
international relations
peacebuilding
Mood
cautious
analytical
critical
Type
theoretical
policy
analytical
When to use this quote
- diplomatic negotiations
- UN reform
- conflict resolution
- policy drafting
Key Concepts
realism
sovereignty
institutional limits
rights theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance idealistic goals with pragmatic constraints?
- What mechanisms can empower the UN without provoking state resistance?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic approaches may overlook power dynamics and local contexts.
