China had never had to deal in a world of countries of approximately equal strength, and so to adjust to such a world, is in itself a profound challenge to China, which now has fourteen countries on its borders, some of which are small, but can project their nationality into China, some of which are large, and historically significant, so that any attempt by Chinese to dominate the world, would involve in a disastrous for the peace of the world.
Interpretation
China faces a complex challenge in adjusting to a world with equally powerful nations.
Henry A. Kissinger highlights the unique geopolitical challenge faced by China as it navigates relationships with fourteen neighboring countries. The quote emphasizes the balance of power and the potential consequences of any aggressive actions taken by China towards global dominance, underlining the importance of cooperation for maintaining world peace.
In practice
In a discussion about international relations, one might quote this to emphasize the need for careful diplomacy with rising powers.
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It was a Greek tragedy. Nixon was fulfilling his own nature. Once it started it could not end otherwise.
The absence of alternatives clears the mind marvelously.
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What political leaders decide, intelligence services tend to seek to justify.
Ron: Why spiders? Why couldn't it be "follow the butterflies?
The thinker makes a great mistake when he asks after cause and effect. They both together make up the indivisible phenomenon.
If God had made a perfect world, it would be a magic trick, not creation, with no meaning or place for us to learn and create. Mankind is not yet ready for a perfect world. We do not know how to appreciate perfection.
she was a little startled by seeing the Cheshire Cat sitting on a bough of a tree a few yards off. The Cat only grinned when it saw Alice.
Who can tell truth from falsehood any more? I say it, and you feel it in your hearts: no man or woman on this big small earth. How should our sages miss the mark of life, and our most skillful players lose the game? your hearts will tell you, as my heart has told me: because all know, and no one understands.
I have seem even those who have long since abjured God die in grace. . . . Atheists don't use their drying to bargain for a better seat at the table; indeed they may not even believe supper is being served. They are not storing up 'merit.'; They just smile because their heart is ripe. They are kind for no particular reason; they just love.
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