Quote by George Orwell
It is a commonplace that the history of civilisation is largely the history of weapons. In particular, the connection between the discovery of gunpowder and the overthrow of feudalism by the bourgeoisie has been pointed out over and over again. And though I have no doubt exceptions can be brought forward, I think the following rule would be found to be generally true that ages in which the dominant weapon is expensive or difficult to make will be ages of despotism, whereas when the dominant weapon is cheap and simple, the common people have a chance. Thus, for example, tanks, battleships and bombing planes are inherently tyrannical weapons, while rifles, muskets, long-bows and hand-grenades are inherently democratic weapons. A complex weapon makes the strong stronger, while a simple weapon so long as there is no answer to it gives claws to the weak.
Summary
This quote by George Orwell highlights the relationship between the history of weapons and the course of civilization. He argues that the dominant weapon of an era determines the power dynamics within society. Expensive and difficult to make weapons, such as tanks and battleships, tend to favor despotism and more oppressive regimes. Conversely, inexpensive and simple weapons like rifles and hand grenades provide an opportunity for the common people to resist and challenge those in power. In essence, the accessibility and ease of use of weapons can determine the ability of the weak to defend themselves against the strong.
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