Dorothy Thompson: 'Peace has to be created, in order to be maintained. It will never be achieved by passivity and quietism.'

Peace has to be created, in order to be maintained. It will never be achieved by passivity and quietism.

Dorothy Thompson once said, "Peace has to be created, in order to be maintained. It will never be achieved by passivity and quietism." This quote encapsulates the essence of peace and highlights the active role that must be taken to establish and sustain it. Thompson suggests that peace cannot be a mere absence of conflict or a state of passivity; rather, it demands proactive efforts and engagement. This quote holds immense significance in the complex and ever-changing world we live in, where conflicts and tensions are prevalent. It urges us to recognize that peace is not a passive outcome but a dynamic process that requires conscious and continuous action.To delve deeper into the meaning of Thompson's words, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept: the paradox of peace. The paradox of peace suggests that peace itself is a form of resistance. It challenges the conventional notion of peace as a tranquil and static state. Instead, this concept insists that true peace is born out of a struggle against injustice, violence, and inequality. In other words, peace can only be achieved through a deliberate and collective effort to challenge the status quo.The contrast between this philosophical concept and Thompson's quote is intriguing. While both emphasize the need for active participation, Thompson's words focus more on the positive creation and maintenance of peace, while the paradox of peace highlights the inherent contradiction within the concept of peace itself. However, these two perspectives are not necessarily incompatible but rather complementary. Both underscore the need for deliberate action and refute the idea that peace can be achieved through passivity.When we consider the world's history, it becomes evident that peace is not a natural state of affairs but a product of conscious human efforts. It requires individuals and communities to commit themselves to various forms of activism, whether it be through nonviolent resistance, diplomacy, advocacy for human rights, or addressing systemic injustices. By actively engaging with the challenges that undermine peace, we bring about meaningful change and create the conditions necessary for its sustainability.Passivity and quietism, as Thompson notes, are ineffectual approaches in achieving peace. By simply accepting the status quo and avoiding confrontation, we inadvertently contribute to the perpetuation of injustice and conflict. To truly create and maintain peace, we must adopt an active stance, fostering understanding, empathy, and cooperation among diverse groups while challenging harmful narratives and systems.Furthermore, the proactive approach to peace encompasses both individual and collective endeavors. On an individual level, we can cultivate peace by practicing empathy, tolerance, and seeking resolution through constructive dialogue. It is through bridging divides, embracing diversity, and respecting the rights and dignity of others that we create a foundation for peaceful coexistence.At a collective level, institutions and governments play a crucial role in shaping peaceful societies. By promoting inclusivity, social justice, and effective governance, they pave the way for sustainable peace. This involves investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, addressing socio-economic disparities, and working towards disarmament and resolution of conflicts.In conclusion, Thompson's quote serves as a powerful reminder that peace is not a passive state that can be achieved through inaction. Rather, it demands active engagement, the challenging of injustices, and the nurturing of understanding. The idea of the paradox of peace further enriches our understanding, emphasizing the need for resistance and struggle against the forces that undermine harmony. Ultimately, peace is not an unattainable dream but a tangible reality that, with continuous effort and determination, can be created and maintained for the betterment of our world.