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About this quote

What does it mean?
Kissinger suggests that external threats are used to consolidate domestic political support.
In plain terms
Attacks help leaders bring people together behind their policies.
What can you take from it?
Crisis can be used to unify a population.

Where it applies

  • political analysis
  • historical events

Putting it to work

  • analyzing political unity
  • studying crisis management

Questions to consider

  • Does crisis unite or divide?
  • How is political unity achieved?

Another view

It implies unity through fear is intentional.

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