In the last twenty years, we have endeavoured to deal with…
““In the last twenty years, we have endeavoured to deal with the "problem of peace and security", and whether we do not still secretly hug the delusion that it is possible to deal with it as a "problem". We really persuaded ourselves that peace was something that could be achieved by a device, by a set of regulations, by a League of Nations or some other form of constitution, that would solve the matter once and for all. We continue to delude ourselves into the belief that "when the war is over" we shall "this time" discover the trick, the magical formula, that will stop the course of events, make further exertion unnecessary. Last time we failed to achieve this end, and why? Chiefly because we supposed it to be achievable. Because we looked at peace and security as a problem to be solved and not as a work to be made.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Treating peace as a problem to solve leads to false hope; it is ongoing work requiring continual effort.
In simple terms: Peace needs constant work, not a single solution.
Key Takeaway
Commit to sustained peacebuilding actions.
Themes
peace
security
effort
realism
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- diplomacy
- community activism
- education
- media reporting
Key Concepts
political theory
conflict resolution
Questions to Reflect On
- What daily practices can sustain peace?
- How do we avoid complacency after treaties?
A Different Perspective
Assuming a single fix can end conflict is unrealistic.