If you think the terrorists would become peaceful if only America would stop provoking them, then it might make sense to leave them alone. This is not the threat I see. I see a global terrorist movement that exploits Islam in the service of radical political aims - a vision in which books are burned, and women are oppressed, and all dissent is crushed.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker rejects the idea that stopping American provocation would end terrorism, describing it as a global movement with its own oppressive goals.
- In plain terms
- Terrorists are not just reacting to America; they have their own radical plans to control people.
- What can you take from it?
- Understand the root ideology of an enemy rather than assuming it is reactive.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What drives radical movements?
- Is appeasement ever a valid strategy?
Another view
It dismisses legitimate grievances that may fuel radicalization.
More from George W. Bush
My conviction comes down to this: we do not create terrorism by fighting the terrorists. We invite terrorism by ignoring them.
Permalink to quote #350 To retreat before victory would be an act of recklessness and dishonor and I will not allow it.
Permalink to quote #352 In Iraq, there is no peace without victory. We will keep our nerve and we will win that victory.
Permalink to quote #349
Related quotes
We are ruthless and ask no quarter from you. When our turn comes we shall not disguise our terrorism.
Karl MarxKarl Marx quote #16 :freedom is never granted. It is earned by each generation: in the face of tyranny, cruelty, oppression, extremism, sometimes there is only one choice. When th…
Hillary ClintonHillary Clinton quote #31 I was not enthusiastic about the last Gulf war. Of course, it goes without saying, I rooted for our team once the shooting started. But I wasn't for that war. …
Ann CoulterAnn Coulter quote #42