Our National Defense: The Patriotism of Peace — John Shaqi
Our National Defense: The Patriotism of PeaceMaxwell, George Hebard
History
Our National Defense: The Patriotism of Peace
Maxwell, George Hebard
United States -- Defenses
This suggests the question whether such a manufacturer is a safe pilot for
a peace movement, however generously it may be subsidized, and whether an
armor-plate mill and a peace palace are appropriate trace-mates. It would
be unfortunate if the subtle influence of subconscious self-interest should
creep into peace councils or affect the policy of a peace movement. However
that may be, the theory that armaments prevent war has been pretty well
exploded by recent events.
The Pacificists, in case of war, have no plan of their own to propose.
_They, too, leave that to the Militarists._
Then we have the _Pacificators_.
They advocate disarmament and a tribunal of peace in the nature of an
international court to determine international differences and make binding
decrees; and they propose the establishment of an international army and
navy under the control of that court to enforce its decrees. Of course it
must be conceded that this plan may fail, or its success be long delayed,
and that in the meantime it affords no guarantee of peace.
The Pacificators, however, propose no plan in the event of war.
_They also leave that to the Militarists._
Finally comes the Woman's Movement for Constructive Peace, out of which has
grown the organization of the Woman's Peace Party.
Much may be hoped for from this organization if it will concentrate its
strength, and not try to do too many things at once.
If the women of the world will unite and put the same militant force behind
the peace movement that they have put behind the suffrage movement they can
end wars. There is no doubt of that. But it will require world-wide
organization, good generalship, and great concentration of effort. "One
thing at a time" should be their motto.
The following platform was adopted by the Woman's Peace Party:
"The purpose of this organization is to enlist all
American women in arousing the nations to respect the
sacredness of human life and to abolish war. (1) The
immediate calling of a convention of neutral nations in
the interest of early peace. (2) Limitations of
armaments and the nationalization of their manufacture.
(3) Organized opposition to militarism in our own
country. (4) Education of youth in the ideals of peace.
(5) Democratic control of foreign policies. (6) The
further humanizing of governments by the extension of
the franchise to women. (7) Concert of nations to
supersede 'balance of power.' (8) Action toward the
general organization of the world to substitute law for
war. (9) The substitution of an international police
for rival armies and navies. (10) Removal of the
economic causes of war. (11) The appointment by our
government of a commission of men and women, with an
adequate appropriation, to promote international
peace."
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account