Meaning: Hannah Arendt, a prominent political theorist and philosopher, made this statement in her book "On Violence" published in 1969. The quote reflects Arendt's critical analysis of the role of violence in both international relations and domestic politics. Arendt was particularly interested in understanding the nature and implications of violence in the context of power dynamics and political change.

In the quote, Arendt suggests that while violence has become increasingly uncertain and questionable as a tool for achieving goals in the realm of international relations, it has paradoxically gained reputation and appeal in domestic affairs, specifically in the context of revolution. This observation encapsulates Arendt's nuanced understanding of violence and its complex relationship with political power.

Arendt's exploration of violence in "On Violence" is deeply rooted in her broader philosophical inquiry into the nature of power and authority. She distinguishes between power and violence, arguing that power is derived from the collective actions and consent of people, while violence is a manifestation of instrumental force that seeks to impose control or achieve certain ends. Arendt's analysis challenges the conventional wisdom that equates power with the use of force and coercion.

In the context of international relations, Arendt contends that the utility of violence as an instrument of statecraft has diminished in modern times. She argues that the development of more sophisticated diplomatic and political mechanisms, as well as the emergence of global institutions and norms, has rendered traditional military force as a less effective and legitimate means of achieving political objectives between nation-states. This diminishing role of violence in international relations reflects the growing recognition of the limitations and destructive consequences of military conflict.

However, Arendt's observation about the increasing appeal of violence in domestic affairs, particularly in the context of revolution, points to a different dynamic. She suggests that within the internal politics of states, especially in the context of revolutionary movements, violence has gained a certain allure as a means of challenging and destabilizing existing power structures. Arendt's analysis here highlights the complex interplay between violence, resistance, and the pursuit of political change within the domestic sphere.

Arendt's insights into the paradoxical shifts in the perception and application of violence shed light on the evolving nature of political power and conflict. Her work continues to be influential in shaping discussions about the ethics and efficacy of political action, particularly in relation to the use of force and coercion.

In conclusion, Hannah Arendt's quote from "On Violence" offers a thought-provoking reflection on the changing role of violence in international relations and domestic politics. Her analysis challenges conventional assumptions about the relationship between power and violence, and it provides a framework for understanding the complexities of political conflict and change. Arendt's work remains relevant for contemporary discussions about the ethical and strategic implications of violence in the pursuit of political goals.