Today and in the days to come, it’s vital to get a conceptual understanding of Peace. What it really means to have a condition of peace. The most common understanding of peace is “a state of non-violence, tranquility or calm” there are a several other ways to describe that. But peace involves more than just tranquility. It also concerns social justice, conditions that necessitate a dignified and humane existence of people with absolute respect for human rights and freedoms.
To impress more on the two distinct conditions, the terms positive peace and negative peace were coined. Negative peace implores to the absence of direct violence for example war, torture or physical abuse while Positive peace refers to a condition of non-violence with the eradication of all elements of injustice. The presence of positive peace is characterized by effective social structures, food security, eradication of poverty, environmental conservation and respect of religion.
With this understanding, its accurate to say that we are in a constant struggle for peace, with the convictions that suit us, be it advocating for the abolition of wars, resettlement of refugees, better healthcare, equality, religious tolerance, fighting sexism, infrastructure and education development, fair business environments, combating global warming and other noble ventures.
To impress more on the two distinct conditions, the terms positive peace and negative peace were coined. Negative peace implores to the absence of direct violence for example war, torture or physical abuse while Positive peace refers to a condition of non-violence with the eradication of all elements of injustice. The presence of positive peace is characterized by effective social structures, food security, eradication of poverty, environmental conservation and respect of religion.
With this understanding, its accurate to say that we are in a constant struggle for peace, with the convictions that suit us, be it advocating for the abolition of wars, resettlement of refugees, better healthcare, equality, religious tolerance, fighting sexism, infrastructure and education development, fair business environments, combating global warming and other noble ventures.
by James Wallunya
References.
Image Source: http://urbanconnection.us/2014-be-the-peace-banquet/
Loreta Navarro-Castro & Jasmin Nario-Galace. (2010). Peace Education: A Pathway to a Culture of Peace. Quezon City, Philippines: Center of Peace Education, Mirriam college.
Image Source: http://urbanconnection.us/2014-be-the-peace-banquet/
Loreta Navarro-Castro & Jasmin Nario-Galace. (2010). Peace Education: A Pathway to a Culture of Peace. Quezon City, Philippines: Center of Peace Education, Mirriam college.