"Responsible statesmen have only one choice - to do everything possible to prevent a nuclear catastrophe. Any other position is short-sighted; more so, it is suicidal"
- Yuri Andropov
About this Quote
In this quote, Yuri Andropov, a previous Soviet statesman, emphasizes the importance of preventing a nuclear catastrophe. He states that responsible statesmen have no other option but to do whatever in their power to prevent such a catastrophic event. Andropov believes that any other stance, such as overlooking the hazard or minimizing its severity, is not only short-sighted however also self-destructive. He suggests that the effects of a nuclear catastrophe would be ravaging and could potentially lead to the destruction of entire nations. Andropov's words work as a warning to leaders to focus on the prevention of a nuclear disaster above all else, as the effects of inactiveness could be fatal.
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"