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Peace is not merely the absence of war. Nor can it be…

“Peace is not merely the absence of war. Nor can it be reduced solely to the maintenance of a balance of power between enemies. Nor is it brought about by dictatorship. Instead, it is rightly and appropriately called "an enterprise of justice" (Is. 32:7). Peace results from that order structured…” quote by Pope Paul VI
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“Peace is not merely the absence of war. Nor can it be reduced solely to the maintenance of a balance of power between enemies. Nor is it brought about by dictatorship. Instead, it is rightly and appropriately called "an enterprise of justice" (Is. 32:7). Peace results from that order structured into human society by its divine founder, and actualized by men as they thirst after ever greater justice.”

Pope Paul VI

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Peace is a proactive pursuit of justice, not merely the absence of conflict or power balance.

In simple terms: Peace requires active justice, not just no war.

Key Takeaway

Build just societies to achieve lasting peace.

Themes

peace justice societal order morality

Mood

hopeful serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • policy making
  • community building

Key Concepts

political theory theology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can justice be institutionalized?
  • What role does spirituality play in peace?
A Different Perspective

Peace can be fragile without continuous effort and shared values.

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