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Defense Quote by Martin Amis

“What is the only provocation that could bring about the use of nuclear weapons? Nuclear weapons. What is the priority target for nuclear weapons? Nuclear weapons. What is the only established defense against nuclear weapons? Nuclear weapons. How do we prevent the use of nuclear weapons? By…” quote by Martin Amis
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“What is the only provocation that could bring about the use of nuclear weapons? Nuclear weapons. What is the priority target for nuclear weapons? Nuclear weapons. What is the only established defense against nuclear weapons? Nuclear weapons. How do we prevent the use of nuclear weapons? By threatening to use nuclear weapons. And we can't get rid of nuclear weapons, because of nuclear weapons. The intransigence, it seems, is a function of the weapons themselves.”

Martin Amis

About This Quote

Source Essay: Nuclear Discourse, 1995

He cynically repeats that nuclear weapons dominate every aspect of nuclear strategy and policy.

In simple terms: Nuclear weapons dominate all related discussions.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the endless loop of nuclear focus.

Themes

war policy security nuclear weapons

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

satire analytical

When to use this quote

  • International negotiations
  • defense planning
  • public debate
  • academic study

Key Concepts

Deterrence theory mutually assured destruction

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can we break the nuclear-centric mindset?
  • What alternatives exist to nuclear deterrence?
A Different Perspective

Oversimplifies complex security issues.

3.1 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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