Battle Quote by Sam Keen
“In the beginning, we create the enemy. Before the weapon comes the image. We think others to death and then invent the battle-axe or ballistic missiles with which to actually kill them. Propaganda precedes technology.”
About This Quote
Source Book: In the Beginning, 1995
We first imagine enemies, then create weapons to destroy them; propaganda fuels technology.
In simple terms: We imagine foes, then build weapons; propaganda precedes tech.
Question narratives before weaponizing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political campaigning
- military planning
- media literacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What narratives shape your perception of threats?
- How can we disrupt propaganda cycles?
Not all imagined enemies become real threats.