Is violence necessary to maintain a moral society?

Violence is necessary to maintain a moral society. However this statement remains a contentious issue for many individuals. There are those who view violence as immoral and unnecessary. On the other hand, others view it as necessary only if it translates into benefits for the entire society. However, some individuals remain divided between both sides due to the subjectivity of determining violence’s necessity.

Pacifists view violence as an immoral act that results in further degradation of the society. Individuals with this standpoint believe in amicable resolution of conflicts where opposing sides set their differences aside and work towards reaching a compromise. The process of conflict resolution is lengthy and riddled with many barriers; ensuring proper communication proves crucial in mitigating the conflict. Effective communication depends on both parties listening to each other’s arguments without passing any prior judgment. It also entails developing sensitivity to each other’s cultural background. The presence of a neutral third party charged with the responsibility of mediating the conflict enables feuding parties to address their concerns in a rational manner. For example, feuding countries rely on peace delegates to mediate their conflict resolution talks in order to prevent war.

Other non-violent methods can also preserve morality. These methods negate the use of physical force or verbal threats by encouraging the use of peaceful methods to foster lasting, positive political and social change. Pacifists also realize the negative repercussions of retaliating to violence with violence. The nature of the majority of humans compels them to engage in counter-violence aimed at instigators of preceding violent acts. This pe...

... middle of paper ...

...individual’s appraisal of the causes and consequences of violent acts. Freewill enables individuals to analyze situations and choose options that appeal to their sense of morality. Violence born out of oppression garners the support of many because it functions to liberate the oppressed. On the other hand, violence resulting from wounded egos, failure to communicate receives condemnation because it only seeks to advance the needs of the minority. The negative consequences of violence such as loss of property and death make it a costly affair preventing feuding sides from unnecessarily resorting to it. Violence is necessary in maintaining a moral society; however, it must result in the good of the entire society and not seek to fuel inequality. Moreover, it is the responsibility of individuals to analyze the consequences of violence and opt for the positive ones.