Assumption Quote by Robert Conquest
“The Soviet assumption that all other political life-forms and beliefs were inherently and immutably hostile was the simple and central cause of that Cold War.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Great Fear, 1965
The belief that foreign ideologies are inherently hostile caused the Cold War.
In simple terms: Seeing others as enemies sparked conflict.
Key Takeaway
Challenge assumptions of hostility.
Themes
politics
conflict
ideology
history
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- diplomacy
- international relations
- policy making
- education
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Cold War
perception
enemy
Questions to Reflect On
- How might recognizing common humanity alter foreign policy?
- What evidence contradicts the view of inherent hostility?
A Different Perspective
Assuming hostility can ignore mutual interests and cooperation.
