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Foreign policy Quote by Madeleine Albright

“the purpose of foreign policy is to persuade others to do what we want or, better yet, to want what we want.” quote by Madeleine Albright
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“the purpose of foreign policy is to persuade others to do what we want or, better yet, to want what we want.”

Madeleine Albright

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks at the United Nations General Assembly, 1995

Foreign policy aims to shape other nations' desires to align with our interests, ideally making them want what we want.

In simple terms: Persuade others to share our goals.

Key Takeaway

Seek mutual benefit through influence.

Themes

diplomacy influence strategic communication

Mood

thoughtful strategic

Type

political inspirational

When to use this quote

  • negotiations
  • international treaties
  • public diplomacy

Key Concepts

realism soft power interest alignment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure influence respects other nations' autonomy?
  • What ethical limits exist in shaping desires?
A Different Perspective

Assumes rational actors; may overlook cultural differences.

2.1 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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