The question that we must ask is whether we are making progress toward the goal of universal peace. Or are we caught up on a treadmill of history, turning forever on the axle of mindless aggression and self-destruction?
Interpretation
This quote prompts us to reflect on our advancement towards global peace versus being stuck in cycles of conflict.
F.W. De Klerk's quote challenges us to consider our current trajectory regarding universal peace. It emphasizes the importance of evaluating whether our efforts are genuinely contributing to achieving peace or if we are merely repeating destructive patterns without progression. The metaphor of a 'treadmill of history' suggests that society may be trapped in a loop of aggression and self-destruction, pointing to the need for conscious efforts towards positive change.
In practice
In a discussion about world affairs, you might use this quote to emphasize the need for peaceful solutions.
I played an integral part in helpings formulating that new vision... that we must abandon apartheid and accept one united South Africa with equal rights for all, with all forms of discrimination to be scrapped from the statute book.
Mere praise of peace is easy and ineffective. What is needed is acitve participation in the fight against war and everything which leads to it.
Security is the absolute precondition for sustainable recovery from conflict; without it, people cannot rebuild their country or return to school or work.
Working for peace in the future is to work for peace in the present moment.
A wall is a hell of a lot better than a war.
Peace between Israel and Palestine would be a giant step toward greater regional stability, and it would finally let both Israelis and Palestinians benefit from the Middle East's growing wealth.
I enter negotiations with Chairman Arafat, the leader of the PLO, the representative of the Palestinian people, with the purpose to have coexistence between our two entities, Israel as a Jewish state and Palestinian state, entity, next to us, living in peace.
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