Meaning: The quote "If we are attacked we can only defend ourselves with guns not with butter" is often attributed to Joseph Goebbels, a leading figure in Nazi Germany during the 1930s and 1940s. The quote is a succinct expression of a key principle of militarism and war preparedness. It emphasizes the idea that in times of conflict or threat, a nation's ability to defend itself relies on its military strength and weaponry, rather than on the production of consumer goods or agricultural products.

Joseph Goebbels was the Reich Minister of Propaganda in Nazi Germany, and he played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and garnering support for the policies and actions of the Nazi regime. He was known for his skillful use of propaganda to manipulate and control the German population, as well as to promote the ideals and objectives of the Nazi Party.

The quote reflects the militaristic and aggressive mindset of the Nazi regime, which prioritized the buildup of military power and the pursuit of territorial expansion. It underscores the belief that a nation's security and survival hinge on its ability to wage war and repel potential attackers. In this context, "guns" symbolize military might, armaments, and combat readiness, while "butter" represents the peaceful and civilian aspects of society, such as food production, economic prosperity, and social welfare.

The contrast between "guns" and "butter" in the quote highlights the perceived dichotomy between war and peace, and the notion that in times of crisis, the resources and efforts of a nation must be directed towards military strength and defense, rather than towards the wellbeing and comfort of its citizens. This militaristic philosophy was central to the ideology of the Nazi Party, which sought to establish and maintain a dominant position through military conquest and the subjugation of other nations.

The quote also reflects the prioritization of military spending and armament production over social welfare and civilian needs, a characteristic feature of totalitarian and militaristic regimes. It underscores the idea that in the face of external threats or aggression, the allocation of resources and the focus of national efforts must be geared towards strengthening the military capabilities of the state, often at the expense of other sectors of society.

In a broader historical and geopolitical context, the quote can be seen as a reflection of the prevailing attitudes and policies of militarism and aggression that characterized the interwar period and the lead-up to World War II. The rise of fascist and totalitarian regimes in Europe during this time was marked by a strong emphasis on military expansion, territorial conquest, and the pursuit of national greatness through armed conflict.

The quote also serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of militarism and the prioritization of military power over peaceful and cooperative approaches to international relations. It underscores the potential consequences of embracing an ideology that glorifies war and conquest, and neglects the humanitarian and diplomatic dimensions of global affairs.

Ultimately, the quote "If we are attacked we can only defend ourselves with guns not with butter" encapsulates the militaristic and aggressive ethos of the Nazi regime, and serves as a stark reminder of the destructive impact of ideologies that prioritize militarism and conflict over peace and cooperation.