Absolute Pacifism

Pacifism Absolute Pacifism

Introduction to Absolute Pacifism

Members of some religious groups, such as the Mennonite Church and the Quakers, believe they can convert aggressors to peaceful ways by setting an example of loving, nonviolent behavior. This is the attitude expressed in the New Testament Sermon on the Mount, but it is much older than Christianity, permeating the teachings of Buddha, Confucius, and other Eastern philosophers. Absolute pacifism assumes both that its practitioners will be able to maintain moral courage when faced with aggression and provocation and that their opponents will be affected by a constant return of good for bad. Such pacifism has never been entirely successful, however. Although the early Christians maintained this attitude through several generations, their uncompromising opposition to the use of force disappeared after the church became allied with the Roman state in the 4th century. A contemporary proponent of absolute pacifism usually claims the status of conscientious objector when faced with military service.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Absolute Pacifism in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Absolute Pacifism