Meaning: The quote by Christian Lange, a politician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, reflects on the relationship between economic and technical development and the subsequent emergence of political forces to shape and govern these advancements. The quote suggests that as societies progress economically and technologically, there is a natural tendency for political structures and systems to evolve in response to these changes. In essence, it highlights the interconnectedness of economic, technical, and political forces within a society.

Economic and technical development are often intertwined, with advancements in technology frequently driving economic progress and vice versa. As new technologies emerge and economic systems evolve, they have the potential to transform the way societies operate, produce goods and services, and interact with one another. These changes can have far-reaching implications, affecting everything from employment and trade to communication and infrastructure.

In response to these shifts, political forces come into play to organize, regulate, and govern the new economic and technical realities. This is where the concept of "political forms" comes into play, as societies seek to create structures and institutions to manage and govern the changes brought about by economic and technical progress. These political forms may take the shape of new policies, regulations, or even entirely new systems of governance.

Lange's quote suggests that the emergence of these political forms is a natural and recurring phenomenon, occurring each time there is significant progress on the economic and technical plane. This observation aligns with historical patterns, as societies throughout history have witnessed the rise of new political systems in response to economic and technological shifts. For example, the Industrial Revolution brought about significant economic and technical changes, leading to the emergence of new political ideologies and movements such as socialism and capitalism.

Furthermore, the quote implies that the relationship between economic, technical, and political forces is dynamic and ongoing. As societies continue to experience economic and technical development, the need for corresponding political forms will persist. This underscores the idea that political systems are not static but rather adaptive and responsive to the changing needs and dynamics of a society.

In a contemporary context, the quote remains relevant as we witness the rapid pace of technological innovation and its impact on economies worldwide. The rise of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital connectivity has led to significant economic shifts, such as changes in labor markets and the way businesses operate. In response, governments and political institutions are grappling with how to regulate and govern these changes, addressing issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, and the impact of automation on employment.

Moreover, the quote also invites reflection on the potential implications of these interactions between economic, technical, and political forces. It raises questions about power dynamics, governance, and the balance of interests within society. For instance, the influence of economic interests on political decision-making and the role of technological advancements in shaping political discourse are subjects of ongoing debate and scrutiny.

In conclusion, Christian Lange's quote encapsulates the intricate relationship between economic, technical, and political forces within society. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing interplay between these domains and the need for adaptive political forms to govern and regulate the ever-evolving economic and technical realities. As we continue to witness rapid advancements in technology and changes in economic landscapes, the quote prompts us to consider the complex and dynamic nature of this interrelationship and its implications for governance and society as a whole.