Meaning: This quote by Christian Lange, a Norwegian politician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, addresses the dangers of unchecked state power and the potential for such power to lead to conflict and instability. The quote reflects Lange's belief in the need for moral and ethical considerations in the exercise of state power and the potential consequences of a state acting solely in its own self-interest.

Lange's assertion that the "theoretically unrestricted right to develop power, to wage war against other states, is antisocial and is doubly dangerous" highlights his concern about the potential for states to pursue their own interests without regard for the broader implications of their actions. This viewpoint aligns with the principles of international law and norms that seek to limit the use of force and promote peaceful resolution of conflicts between states.

The concept of an "unrestricted right to develop power" can be interpreted as a critique of unilateral and aggressive actions by states that seek to expand their influence or pursue their own agendas without consideration for the interests of other states or the international community as a whole. Lange's characterization of this approach as "antisocial" suggests that it runs counter to the principles of cooperation and mutual respect that underpin stable and peaceful international relations.

Furthermore, Lange's assertion that such behavior is "doubly dangerous" underscores his belief in the potentially grave consequences of unchecked state power. He points to the state as a "mass entity" representing a "low moral and intellectual level," suggesting that the pursuit of power and war by states may be driven by base instincts and lack of ethical reasoning. This critique reflects Lange's concern about the potential for states to act in ways that disregard the well-being of their own citizens and the global community.

Lange's perspective on the dangers of unrestrained state power can be understood in the context of his broader advocacy for peace, disarmament, and international cooperation. As a prominent figure in the interwar peace movement and a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1921, Lange was deeply committed to promoting the peaceful resolution of conflicts and preventing the recurrence of war on a global scale.

In light of his experiences during World War I and his subsequent efforts to advance international peace and security, Lange's views on the dangers of unbridled state power reflect a deep-seated concern about the potential for militarism and aggression to undermine the stability and well-being of nations and peoples. His advocacy for the establishment of international institutions and mechanisms to prevent war and promote cooperation underscores his belief in the need for collective action to address the challenges posed by state power.

In conclusion, Christian Lange's quote encapsulates his profound concerns about the dangers of unchecked state power and the potential for such power to lead to conflict, instability, and moral degradation. His perspective reflects a commitment to ethical and principled governance at the state level and a broader aspiration for international peace and cooperation. By highlighting the potential perils of unrestrained state power, Lange's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring importance of ethical considerations in the exercise of political authority and the pursuit of global security and prosperity.