The calamities arising as a result of war and the preparations for war not only do not correspond to the causes which people put forward as the justification for war, but these causes are for the most part so trivial that they are not worth discussing and are completely unknown to those people who die on the battlefield.
Tolstoy
The madness of contemporary war is justified by dynastic interests, national interests, the need to keep the balance within Europe, and in the name of honour. The justification for war in the name of honour is strangest of all, because there is not a single nation which would not defile itself with all kinds of crimes and shameful acts in the name of honour, nor is there any which would not experience all kinds of possible humiliations in the name of honour. If honour does indeed exist among nations then what a strange way to uphold it through war – that is, by committing all those crimes with which an honest person can bring shame upon himself: arson, robbery and murder.
France, The Crime of Sylvestre Bonnard
Sometimes one prince quarrels with another for fear the other should quarrels with another for fear the other should quarrel with him. Sometimes a war is entered upon, because the enemy is too strong; and sometimes, because he is too weak. Sometimes our neighbours want the things which we have, or have the things which we want, and we both fight, till they take ours, or give us theirs.
Swift, Gulliver’s Travels
These quotes collectively critique the justifications for war, highlighting their often trivial, paradoxical, or morally dubious nature. They prompt reflection on the true motives behind armed conflicts and their consequences. This calls into question what one’s role is as a wise and responsible citizen. I, personally, have not done much in the way of civic action. I have not really signed many petitions or called my senator or voted in polls and the like. I recently had a child, however, and all those things are on my mind like never before. I want to take responsibility for what I can do to improve the future of my city, state, country, and world. These quotes inspire me to think critically about my role in war, however indirect. These insights suggest practical steps we can all take such as advocating for enhanced transparency in governmental decisions leading to war, ensuring citizens are well-informed and engaged in discussions about the necessity and morality of armed conflict. This could strengthen democratic processes and accountability in decisions related to war and peace.
-Ryan Parmenter