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In an ideal world, where there are only good states, power would be largely irrelevant.

— John Mearsheimer The Tragedy of Great Power Politics (2001)

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More quotes by John Mearsheimer

The most dangerous states in the international system are continental powers with large armies.

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics (2001)

In the anarchic world of international politics, it is better to be Godzilla than Bambi.

Simply put, the most powerful state is the one that prevails in a dispute.

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics (2001)

The ideal situation for any state is to experience sharp economic growth while its rivals' economies grow slowly or hardly at all.

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics (2001)

States have two kinds of power: latent power and military power.

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics (2001)

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