Israel Quote by Tom Hodgkinson
““Governments appreciate terrorists, because they provide a good advertisement for the need for government, for its protection. They love wars, because they give government a reason for existing – to save us from the infidel.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of the Good Life, Tom Hodgkinson, 2010
Governments exploit fear and conflict to justify their power, using terrorism and war as propaganda for their necessity.
In simple terms: Governments use threats to prove they are needed.
Key Takeaway
Question how fear is used to legitimize authority.
Themes
politics
power
media
war
terrorism
Mood
critical
skeptical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
commentary
When to use this quote
- public policy debates
- media analysis
- activist campaigns
- citizen education
- election rhetoric
Key Concepts
social contract
propaganda
security dilemma
Questions to Reflect On
- What narratives do you accept about security?
- How can societies reduce reliance on fear for governance?
A Different Perspective
It overlooks genuine threats and the role of citizen agency in demanding accountability.
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