Meaning: The quote "Without that assured American largesse Israel would have been obliged to come to an accommodation with her neighbours" by Mary Douglas, a renowned scientist, encapsulates the complex relationship between the United States, Israel, and its neighboring countries. This quote alludes to the significant financial and military support that the United States provides to Israel, which has played a crucial role in shaping Israel's foreign policy and its approach to conflicts with its neighbors.

The term "American largesse" refers to the generous financial and military aid that the United States has provided to Israel since its establishment as an independent state in 1948. This support has been a cornerstone of the U.S.-Israel relationship and has had a profound impact on Israel's ability to maintain a strong military and defend itself against external threats.

The quote suggests that without the consistent and significant support from the United States, Israel would have been compelled to seek a more conciliatory approach in its dealings with its neighbors. This implies that American largesse has empowered Israel to pursue a more assertive and uncompromising stance in its interactions with neighboring countries, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader regional dynamics in the Middle East.

Mary Douglas, a prominent social anthropologist and scholar, brings a unique perspective to this quote. As a scientist, her work often focused on the intersection of culture, religion, and society, and she was known for her incisive analysis of power dynamics and social structures. In the context of this quote, Douglas likely intended to highlight the role of external support, particularly from the United States, in shaping the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East and influencing the behavior of Israel in its interactions with neighboring countries.

The quote also raises important questions about the impact of foreign aid and external support on the foreign policy decisions of recipient countries. In the case of Israel, the substantial aid from the United States has undoubtedly bolstered its military capabilities and provided a sense of security, but it has also been a source of contention and criticism in the broader international community, particularly in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

From a geopolitical perspective, the quote underscores the intricate web of relationships and dependencies that underpin international politics. The United States' unwavering support for Israel has not only shaped the regional dynamics in the Middle East but has also influenced global perceptions of U.S. foreign policy and its role as a key player in the region.

In summary, Mary Douglas' quote "Without that assured American largesse Israel would have been obliged to come to an accommodation with her neighbours" encapsulates the complex interplay of power, foreign aid, and regional dynamics in the Middle East. It sheds light on the pivotal role of U.S. support in shaping Israel's approach to its neighbors and underscores the broader implications of external aid on the foreign policy decisions of recipient countries.