Conflicts and wars have occurred throughout centuries of human existence, despite numerous religious scriptures, saints, and scholars advocating peace and harmony. This persistent state of violence raises the suspicion that aggression is ingrained in the human psyche, much like it is in most animals. Just as animals constantly strive to protect themselves against attacks from humans and other creatures, it appears that humans share a similar instinct for survival and dominance.
One cannot blame animals for their violent tendencies, as their behaviour is driven by natural instinct. Animals lack the sixth sense that humans are believed to possess. However, this justification for violence cannot, and should not, be extended to humans, who are regarded as a “superior class” among God’s creations.
The struggle for peace has persisted for centuries without success, even as wars continue to erupt.
Beyond the countless conflicts that have taken place throughout history, the most devastating were the First and Second World Wars. After World War I, the importance of peace was not fully recognised by global leaders, leading to the outbreak of World War II. Millions of people fought and died, yet these wars ultimately achieved little of lasting value. In hindsight, the efforts of those who engaged in warfare appear futile, marked only by the tragic loss of human lives.
Following the end of World War II, determined efforts were made to establish a global peace forum, resulting in the creation of the United Nations Organisation (UNO). However, this institution has failed to achieve significant progress in securing world peace. Instead, it has largely become a platform for governments to debate, blame, and pay lip service to the idea of peace, rather than taking meaningful action. Today, the UNO is widely regarded as little more than a discussion forum or a debating club.
Numerous violent conflicts have erupted since World War II, with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas war dominating global discourse. As always, voices calling for an end to these conflicts grow louder, while those engaged in war claim they are fighting to avenge injustices and ultimately secure peace by subduing their adversaries. The notion that wars can “end war” is an absurd and self-defeating claim.
Despite the catastrophic consequences of countless wars, governments worldwide have failed to recognise that conflicts serve no real purpose. Victory or defeat in war is a meaningless pursuit, bringing neither lasting security nor true resolution.
At the heart of these conflicts are political leaders consumed by fear—fear of being overpowered, fear of an impending war, whether near or distant. Observers now predict that future wars will be fought using drones and advanced technology, leading nations to develop increasingly sophisticated warfare techniques. Ironically, technological progress is being used not to foster peace but to enhance the tools of destruction.
Historical events suggest that war cannot be eradicated, as the violent tendencies inherent in human nature remain unchanged. While many advocate that the struggle for peace must begin within the minds of individuals, this transformation has not occurred over centuries. Observers believe it is wishful thinking—perhaps even a pipe dream—to assume that war will ever be eliminated from the world.
The stark reality is that while material progress has surged due to advancements in science and technology, human nature remains largely unrefined. There is little indication that this will change in the foreseeable future. Peace advocates will continue to speak and write eloquently about the need for harmony, but their efforts are unlikely to bring about significant change. The human mind appears to be incorrigible.
It would not be a progressive thought process to dismiss the hope for peace as mere utopian fantasy. Historically, just as wars have occurred, calls for peace have echoed alongside them. This cycle is likely to persist indefinitely. The hope for world peace, it seems, is an eternal pursuit.
