Nations do not think, they only feel. They get their feelings at second hand through their temperaments, not their brains. A nation can be brought -- by force of circumstances, not argument -- to reconcile itself to any kind of government or religion that can be devised; in time it will fit itself to the required conditions; later it will prefer them and will fiercely fight for them.

Summary

This quote suggests that nations are driven by emotions rather than rational thinking. Their collective temperament shapes their feelings which, in turn, influence their acceptance of various forms of governance and religion. It asserts that nations can adapt and conform to any imposed system, eventually embracing and fiercely defending it. The quote highlights the power of circumstances and emotions in shaping national identity and behavior.

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