A belligerent state permits itself every such misdeed, every such act of violence, as would disgrace the individual

A belligerent state permits itself every such misdeed, every such act of violence, as would disgrace the individual

Sigmund Freud, the renowned psychoanalyst, delved deep into the human psyche to understand the complexities of human behavior. In his exploration of the human mind, Freud often touched upon the darker aspects of human nature, including aggression and violence. The quote, “A belligerent state permits itself every such misdeed, every such act of violence, as would disgrace the individual,” can be seen through a Freudian lens as a reflection of the collective unconscious of society.

Freud believed that human beings possess an innate drive towards aggression, which he termed the death instinct or Thanatos. This aggressive drive, when left unchecked, can manifest in destructive behaviors on both an individual and societal level. In the context of a belligerent state, this drive towards aggression is magnified and can lead to acts of violence and misdeeds that would be considered disgraceful on an individual level.

When a state becomes belligerent, it often justifies its actions through the lens of national security or self-defense. This rationalization allows for the perpetration of acts of violence and aggression that would be condemned if carried out by an individual. Freud would argue that this collective aggression stems from a deep-seated fear and insecurity within the society, which is projected onto external threats.

Furthermore, Freud’s concept of the superego, or the internalized moral compass, plays a role in shaping societal norms and values. In a belligerent state, the superego may become distorted, allowing for the acceptance of violence and misdeeds as a means to an end. This erosion of moral values at the societal level can have far-reaching consequences, leading to a cycle of violence and aggression that perpetuates itself.