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"因为战争不可能保存生命,和平不会毁灭生命。"

Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes Philosopher
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Quote meaning
The idea behind this quote is pretty straightforward: war, by its very nature, cannot protect life, while peace cannot harm it. It's kind of like saying fire can't make things colder, and ice can't make things hotter. It’s the inherent contradiction in thinking war could somehow be beneficial for preserving life and that peace could be detrimental.

To give you some context, this sentiment likely comes from a time when people were starting to question the old ways of handling conflicts. Think about the aftermath of the World Wars, for example. After so much destruction and loss of life, people were significantly reconsidering the value of peace over conflict. They realized that war brought nothing but devastation, while peace offered a chance for rebuilding and growth.

Let’s look at a real-life example: the civil rights movement in the United States during the 1960s. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. epitomized this idea. He championed nonviolent resistance, understanding that fighting for equality through violent means would only result in more harm and loss of life. Instead, his peaceful protests and speeches moved the country significantly toward the end of legalized racial segregation. The peaceful approach preserved lives and ultimately led to a more just society.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Think about your own conflicts, big or small. Maybe it's a fight with a friend or disagreement at work. The instinct might be to argue your point aggressively, to "win" the conflict. But remember, approaching with peace—understanding, empathy, and calm discussions—can actually resolve the situation more effectively without damaging relationships or creating further problems.

Imagine you have a colleague at work who keeps taking credit for your ideas. It infuriates you, right? You might feel tempted to confront them harshly or even sabotage their work. But what if you tried a different approach? Maybe you invite them for a coffee and ask why they do it. You approach it calmly, expressing how it makes you feel and suggesting ways you could both get credit where it’s due. This way, you’re preserving a professional relationship and fostering an environment where both of you can thrive.

Let me share a quick story to wrap this up. A friend of mine, Jake, had a massive falling out with his business partner over financial disagreements. Jake was ready to go to court, convinced that fighting it out was the only way to protect his interests. But then he took a step back and decided to try mediation. In those mediated sessions, they both expressed their concerns calmly and found a middle ground. Not only did they save their business, but they also preserved their friendship.

So, next time you're faced with a conflict, big or small, think about this quote. Remember that war in any form—whether it's physical, verbal, or emotional—can’t preserve what you cherish. Peace, on the other hand, offers the opportunity to build, heal, and protect the things that truly matter.
Related tags
Conflict Destruction Existence Humanity Life Paradox Peace Philosophy Preservation War
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