How can we encourage non-violent solutions to conflicts large and small?

Question

Between the wars in Iraq & Afganistan and the recent violence in Israel and Lebanon, it seems we are content to solve political conflicts with brutal force. As a society, we are numb to the horrors of warfare. Human suffering doesn't seem to register in the calculations of the political establishment. Granted, the problems the world faces are vast... But unless we simply refuse war and violence as the status quo, we further human suffering by perpetuating violence in the name of nation or in the name of fighting terrorism or in the name of defending Israel, etc....

Answer 1

the only way to change anything is to change it on a personal level, treat everyone the way you want to be treated, dont preach it at anyone, dont whine, simply one on one, when you meet someone, treat them as you want to be treated, even if they dont treat you well.

Answer 2

it would end much suffering if conflicting parties could work together and find non-violent solutions to their differences. unfortunately, they often don't seem to work, and violence is the result, because it's all they know. is it an excuse? no, but historically, people in this part of the world have been warring more than they have been making peace. there is a long history of bloodshed in the middle east, and it seems the 21st century is doing iits part to keep the drums of war beating.

but ideally, to address your question, a non-violent solution would have to give the illusion to both sides that they are the ones with the most to gain. compromise seems to not be in the vocabulary of hezbollah and israel. and tit for tat escalates to the point where it matters not who's at fault, it's just a matter of reacting to each other's provocation. what do the israelis want? what do the palestinians want? i won't pretend to know the answer, but they both must feel that their needs were met, or a non-violent solution will not work.

i agree with you, it does seem that the us is 'content' to let force decide political conflicts. perhaps vladimir putin is right: there is another way. is there anything to lose by trying?

a non-violent solution must involve spokespersons from ALL involved parties, and on a timetable agreeable to ALL. now the scope of the difficulty becomes clear when the participants can't even agree on who gets to sit closest to the jelly bean dish...

Answer 3

The Bible speaks of wars and rumours of wars.Until Armegeddon nothing can be done as Isaac and Ismael being half bros and sons of Moses will always fight

Answer 4

Well, you can always sit in a circle and sing koombia. That always helps. Unless some islamic fascist is sitting there with you, in which case, you and your sandal footed friends will all have your throats slit.

Answer 5

in the native american tradition there is a tool called the talking stick and it was used to solve problems and no one could leave until it was solved. It has to do with open communication, and heart to heart communication. The talking stick can be used by anyone and protocol is simple. any questions please ask.

Answer 6

Two movies to watch... 13 days & JFK... back then we could easily have been involved in a nuclear war , only for one good man.!!!

Answer 7

ive heard this so many times and it inspires me so much: in order to change others, you must first change yourself.

accept it, theres not much you can do. just make sure everyone knows your oppinion on the issue, teach your family and friends about it, and eventually youll make a change.