The Great Illusion in its turn created certain illusions in those who read the book superficially (or who only heard about it). Because Norman Angell had proved war to be foolish, to be a bad business proposition, many believed that he had said there would be no more war in Europe. Against this misinterpretation Norman Angell at once protested with the greatest heat. He asked: 'Why then do I pursue my fight against war?' Indeed, why should pacifists continue their frequently thankless and unpopular work if they believe that war will never occur any more? Rational people do not try to break down an open door.

What is the 'Great Illusion' which Norman Angell wishes to explode? In few - and therefore insufficient - words, it is this: war is a quite inadequate method f…

The final chapter of The Great Illusion presents a convincing plea for a change in foreign policy from that of a war policy to one of international cooperation…

In 1909, he published a little book of some hundred pages, Europe's Optical Illusion, and he awoke one morning to find himself famous.

The only way to truly know a person is to argue with them. For when they argue in full swing, then they reveal their true character.

Great contest follows, and much learned dust Involves the combatants; each claiming truth, And truth disclaiming both.

Let the long contention cease! Geese are swans, and swans are geese.