But the extent to which this infusion can go and the forms which it takes are determined by a logic and a necessity very different from that of an absolute democratic theory.

National politics have from the start aimed primarily at efficiency--that is, at the successful use of the force resident in the state to accomplish the purposes desired by the Sovereign authority.
Among the group of states inhabited by Christian peoples it has gradually been discovered that the efficient use of force is contingent in a number of respects upon its responsible use; and that its responsible use means a limited policy of external aggrandizement and a partial distribution of political power and responsibilities.

A national polity, however, always remains an organization based upon force.

In internal affairs it depends at bottom for its success not merely upon public opinion, but, if necessary, upon the strong arm.

It is a matter of government and coercion as well as a matter of influence and persuasion.