"The main thing that endears the United Nations to member governments, and so enables it to survive, is its proven capacity to fail, and to be seen to fail"

Conor Cruise O'Brien's quote, "The main thing that endears the United Nations to member federal governments, therefore allows it to endure, is its tested capacity to fail, and to be seen to stop working", provides a provocative review of the United Nations (UN) by suggesting that its strength and extension as a worldwide body are paradoxically linked to its failures. Here's an analysis of the quote:

At its core, the declaration implies that the United Nations endears itself to its member states, not by its successes, but by its shortcomings. The word "endears" suggests a sense of favorability or love. By saying that it is the "proven capability to fail" that endears it, O'Brien is highlighting a counterintuitive reality where failure guarantees survivability. This may be interpreted as a sign that member states may feel comfy with a company that shows it can not enforce sovereignty breaches or drastic changes upon them. Failure here is viewed as non-threatening; it creates an environment in which member states can participate in dialogue and diplomacy without fear of losing control of their nationwide sovereignty.

The expression "to be seen to stop working" might signal that the visibility of these failures contributes in confirming member states' reliance on the UN's governing structure. Consistent public recommendation of shortcomings makes sure openness; hence, it stresses that the UN is more of a mediator than an authoritarian body-- one that can not coerce direct compliance however rather helps with conversations, often unsuccessfully.

Furthermore, O'Brien's quote reflects a cynicism relating to bureaucratic procedures within worldwide relations. The UN, with its structural complexities and multitude of interests, has a hard time to effectively deal with every worldwide problem due to political, financial, and operational constraints. Yet, it endures, potentially because these restraints make it a neutral, albeit inefficient, platform for worldwide dialogue.

Eventually, the quote recommends a symbiosis: the UN's failures line up with states' desires to participate in a global organization that acknowledges restrictions, therefore permitting them a platform for influence without threatening their independence. O'Brien's commentary welcomes reflection on the role and effectiveness of international organizations in international governance.