War will exist until that distant day when the conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation and prestige that the warrior does today.
Interpretation
War and peace are often viewed through the lens of societal values, where warriors are celebrated and conscientious objectors are undervalued.
In this quote, John F. Kennedy emphasizes that war is a persistent aspect of human society, and suggests that for true peace to be achieved, we must reach a point where those who refuse to engage in violence β the conscientious objectors β are held in the same high regard as those who fight in wars. This reflects a fundamental shift in societal values where peace and the choice of non-violence are revered as heroic traits rather than acts of cowardice, highlighting the importance of re-evaluating our perspectives on war and nobility.
In practice
In a speech advocating for peace, one could use this quote to emphasize the need for societal change in how we view soldiers and peace advocates.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
My constant prayer, my number one foreign goal, is to bring peace to Israel. And in the process to Israel's neighbours.
Peace is a question of will. All conflicts can be settled, and there are no excuses for allowing them to become eternal.
Here's a notion: Peace in the Middle East would come about more easily if the region were governed by women.
Peace is a never ending process... It cannot ignore our differences or overlook our common interests. It requires us to work and live together.
It may seem sometimes as if a culture of peace does not stand a chance against the culture of war, the culture of violence and the cultures of impunity and intolerance. Peace may indeed be a complex challenge, dependent on action in many fields and even a bit of luck from time to time. It may be a painfully slow process, and fragile and imperfect when it is achieved. But peace is in our hands. We can do it.
Even if my country remains in war with yours. . .remember. . . i am not your enemy.
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