"In the long course of history, having people who understand your thought is much greater security than another submarine"

J. William Fulbright’s statement draws a profound distinction between the security offered by military power and the deeper, enduring safety derived from mutual understanding and intellectual connection. The reference to “another submarine” alludes to conventional symbols of military strength—technological advancements and weaponry amassed to safeguard nations against perceived threats. However, Fulbright suggests that real, sustainable security transcends the temporary reassurance brought by armaments. Instead, it originates from the cultivation of empathy, dialogue, and shared comprehension among people.

The long arc of human history is marked not only by wars and arsenals but also by eras of thriving civilization, where knowledge, culture, and intellectual exchange were paramount. Empires and states that prioritized fostering understanding, both within their own societies and with others, often endured and prospered more than those relying solely on force. When leaders, communities, or nations genuinely grasp each other's thoughts, aspirations, and motivations, miscommunication reduces, suspicions ease, and the seeds of cooperation are sown. This human interconnectedness acts as a resilient bulwark against conflict, more so than any military deterrent.

Fulbright, as a champion of international education and exchange—the Fulbright Program itself embodying those values—argues for investment in human relationships as the ultimate safeguard. Submarines and military assets may offer immediate deterrence, but understanding creates long-term conditions for lasting peace. Shared knowledge bridges cultural divides and prevents the dehumanization that leads to enmity and conflict. When people are able to see the world through each other's eyes, security is no longer dependent solely on physical defenses but is rooted in trust and mutual respect.

In essence, strategic stability does not just rest on technological might but on the collective capacity to listen, comprehend, and empathize. The true strength of a nation, or indeed of humanity, lies not just in the power it wields, but in the bonds of understanding that tie people together across boundaries.