"The talk about balance, nuclear balance, seems to me to be metaphysical and doesn't seem to be real at all"

This quote by E. P. Thompson suggests that the idea of nuclear equilibrium is not a tangible fact. He indicates that the idea of nuclear equilibrium is more of a thoughtful principle than a functional one. Thompson suggests that the suggestion of nuclear equilibrium is an esoteric principle, indicating that it is based on abstract concepts rather than physical truth. He suggests that the concept of nuclear balance is not something that can be attained in the real world. This quote reflects Thompson's suspicion of the concept of nuclear equilibrium, as well as his idea that it is not a practical option to the trouble of nuclear spreading. Thompson's quote functions as a reminder that the concept of nuclear balance is not a concrete fact, which it is necessary to consider the practical ramifications of any suggested remedy to the problem of nuclear proliferation.