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Peace and Nonviolence
When the issues
of Peace and Nonviolence are generaly considered the reference often relates to an absence
of war and noncombative attitude. This is, however, only a small part of the issue.
Peace
The global movement for a peace and nonviolence begins within
each individual. Peace is a reflection of the character of nations and individuals. It
is achieved on a local level where each person takes responsibility for promoting peace in
his or her community. This is done through education and activism. Respect for individuals
is the key element of peace. The peace between nations and individuals must also address
the economy and the environment. Peace of heart and peace of mind.
Nonviolence
Here are the fundamental tenets of Dr. Martin Luther King’s
philosophy of nonviolence described in his first book, Stride Toward Freedom. The six
principles include:
- Nonviolence is not passive, but requires courage;
- Nonviolence seeks
reconciliation, not defeat of an adversary;
- Nonviolent action is directed at eliminating
evil, not destroying an evil-doer;
- A willingness to accept suffering for the cause, if
necessary, but never to inflict it;
- A rejection of hatred, animosity or violence of
the spirit, as well as refusal to commit physical violence;
- Faith that justice will prevail.
The practice of nonviolence is based on pacifism
A philosophy founded
on an absolute refusal to engage in violence because it is morally wrong.
Here are some of the issues that Peace and Nonviolence include:
- Tolerance - expressed in an active willingness to respect
others of different cultural, religious, ethnic and economic backgrounds.
- Humanism - Perhaps not in a strictly classical sense but one wherein personal loyalities
are to humanity.
- Compassion - A deep awareness of and empathy for another's
suffering. Based on the understanding that we are sisters and brothers.
- An agreement
not to do harm through inaction.
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