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Where is the indignation about the fact that the US and USSR have thirty thousand pounds of destructive force for every human being in the world?
Norman Cousins
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote expresses outrage over the overwhelming destructive power held by superpowers, highlighting the moral implications for humanity.

Norman Cousins' quote emphasizes the disproportionate accumulation of nuclear arsenals by the United States and the Soviet Union, questioning the ethical and humanitarian consequences of possessing such catastrophic power. It calls for greater public indignation and awareness regarding the relationship between military might and the safety of humanity, urging individuals to reflect on the values that underpin peace and existence in a world threatened by such overwhelming destructive potential.

Themes

IndignationDestructive ForceNuclear ArmsHumanityPeace

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about global security, one might reference this quote to emphasize the need for disarmament.

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