Pacifism

Introduction

Pacifism, a term coined at the start of the 20^th century, is a philosophy that rejects violence and advocates for peaceful conflict resolution. At its core, pacifism opposes the use of force, including war and violence, to achieve objectives or resolve disputes. Pacifist beliefs draw inspiration from religious teachings, moral philosophy, and humanitarian principles.  

Different branches of pacifism exist, ranging from absolute pacifism, which rejects violence under all circumstances, even in self-defense, to more nuanced positions permitting limited and justifiable use of force. Pacifism operates at various levels, from individual commitments to nonviolence to opposition to war and militarism at the state level.^[1]

Conservative perspective

There are three reasons why conservatives re skeptical of pacifism. First, conservatives argue that pacifism is too idealistic and can lead to appeasement. Second, conservatives support a strong national defense and justified war/retaliation. Third, conservatives favor the realist approach to international relations and are skeptical of international organizations.

Impracticality and avoiding appeasement

Conservatives are doubtful of pacifism as they see it as idealistic and impractical, especially in the face of real-world threats and conflicts. They argue that pacifism is often naive and may lead to national vulnerability, making it difficult to defend one’s country and interests.^[2] There are real evils in the world, and some of these evils will only be stopped by violence. Pretending that we can solve all issues with kind words is ignorant of reality, and often dangerous. 

Moreover, conservatives are wary of pacifism because it can lead to appeasement, where concessions are made to aggressors in the hope of avoiding conflict. They point to historical examples like the appeasement of Nazi Germany prior to World War II as a cautionary tale against passive responses to threats. In World War II, countries refused to go to war with Nazi Germany for a long time because they didn’t want war. By waiting so long, many people died, and it gave Hitler time to establish himself strategically.

Strong national defense and just war theory

Conservatives prioritize a strong national defense as a means of safeguarding a nation’s security and sovereignty. They argue that maintaining a well-equipped military and being prepared to use force when necessary is essential for deterring potential aggressors and maintaining peace through strength.^[3]

Conservatives agree with the principles of just war theory, a theory which deals with the justification of how and why wars are fought in addition for evaluating the moral and ethical justifiability of going to war. Using this theory, conservatives argue that under certain conditions, the use of force is justifiable.

Realism and doubt of international organizations

Conservatives often align with a realist perspective on international relations. Realism suggests that in a world characterized by power struggles and competition among nations, refusing to use force when needed can be naive and may invite aggression from other countries. They argue that pacifism may not be effective in a world where some actors are not committed to peaceful solutions. 

Moreover, conservatives are skeptical of international organizations and treaties that promote pacifism or disarmament, viewing them as undermining national sovereignty and potentially weakening a country’s ability to protect its interests. This doesn’t mean that conservatives reject all international organizations or treaties, as some of them are put in place to establish collective security mechanisms and protect the security and sovereignty of the state (like NATO).