Meaning: This quote by Christian Lous Lange, a Norwegian politician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, delves into the nature of the state and its inherent tendency towards sovereignty and the pursuit of self-interest. Lange's words offer a thought-provoking insight into the concept of state sovereignty and the potential for an anarchistic nature within the state.

Lange's assertion that "the state by its nature claims sovereignty" touches upon the fundamental characteristic of the state as a political entity that exercises supreme authority over a defined territory and population. Sovereignty, in this context, refers to the state's absolute power and autonomy within its borders, allowing it to make and enforce laws, conduct foreign affairs, and wield authority over its citizens. This concept of sovereignty has been a cornerstone of political theory and international relations for centuries, shaping the dynamics of power and governance on a global scale.

Furthermore, Lange's statement that the state possesses "the right to an unlimited development of power, determined only by self-interest" reflects the notion of state-centric behavior driven by the pursuit of its own interests. This aligns with the realist perspective in international relations, which posits that states are primarily motivated by self-interest and the quest for power in an anarchic international system. In this context, the state is viewed as a rational actor seeking to maximize its security and influence, often at the expense of other states or non-state actors.

The assertion that the state is "by nature anarchistic" introduces a fascinating dimension to Lange's quote. This characterization challenges the conventional understanding of anarchism as a stateless society and instead suggests that the state itself embodies anarchistic tendencies. In political theory, anarchism typically refers to the belief in the absence of a centralized state authority, advocating for non-hierarchical forms of organization and governance. However, Lange's use of the term "anarchistic" in this context may allude to the state's inherent pursuit of power and its potential to disrupt the existing order in the pursuit of its self-interest.

Lange's background as a politician and Nobel Peace Prize recipient lends weight to his insights on the nature of the state. As a politician, Lange would have been intimately familiar with the dynamics of state power and the complexities of international relations. His advocacy for peace and disarmament, which contributed to his Nobel Peace Prize award in 1921, further underscores his commitment to understanding and addressing the underlying nature of the state and its implications for global stability.

In conclusion, Christian Lous Lange's quote provides a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of the state, sovereignty, and self-interest. His characterization of the state as inherently sovereign, driven by self-interest, and possessing anarchistic tendencies challenges traditional conceptions of statehood and invites reflection on the dynamics of power and governance. As the world continues to grapple with complex geopolitical challenges, Lange's words serve as a reminder of the nuanced nature of statecraft and the imperative of understanding and navigating the complexities of state behavior in international affairs.