The Perpetuation of Conflict
The statement “Wars are not to be won, they must be ongoing” suggests a cynical view of armed conflict as a perpetual state rather than a finite endeavor.
- Conflict as a System: War is not an isolated event but a complex system with its own internal logic and dynamics. Once initiated, it becomes self-perpetuating, generating its own momentum and rationale for continued existence.
- Economic and Political Interests: Underlying many conflicts are economic and political interests that benefit from the ongoing state of war. These vested interests create incentives to prolong hostilities, even at great human cost.
- Power Dynamics: The maintenance of war can serve to reinforce power structures and hierarchies. Those in positions of authority may find it advantageous to perpetuate conflict to maintain their control.
- Ideological Divisions: Deep-seated ideological differences can create an environment where compromise is difficult and the enemy is dehumanized, making reconciliation and peacebuilding challenging.
This perspective challenges the traditional notion of war as a means to a specific end, suggesting instead that it can become a self-sustaining entity with its own internal logic. It raises important questions about the root causes of conflict, the role of power dynamics, and the challenges of achieving lasting peace.
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