'Diplomacy: it mops up war's spillages; legitimises its outcomes; gives the strong state the means to impose its will on a weaker one, while saving its fleets and battalions for weightier opponents.' ? (p.462)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Diplomacy is described as a tool that manages the aftermath of war, validates results, and enables powerful states to dominate weaker ones while preserving military strength.
- In plain terms
- Diplomacy cleans up after wars, makes the results seem fair, and lets strong countries control weak ones without fighting.
- What can you take from it?
- Diplomacy often serves power interests while managing conflict outcomes.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is diplomacy neutral or biased?
- Who benefits from peace talks?
Another view
Diplomacy can also prevent violence and foster cooperation beyond power projection.
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