Peace is not only better than war, but infinitely more arduous

Peace is not only better than war, but infinitely more arduous

George Bernard Shaw, the renowned Irish playwright and critic, was a staunch advocate for peace and a vocal opponent of war. He believed that peace was not only morally superior to war, but also a much more difficult and challenging endeavor to achieve. Shaw's views on peace and war were shaped by his experiences living through the tumultuous times of the early 20th century, including the devastation of World War I.

Shaw understood that the consequences of war were far-reaching and devastating, not only in terms of loss of life and destruction of property, but also in terms of the long-lasting psychological and emotional scars that it leaves on individuals and societies. He believed that war was a primitive and barbaric way of resolving conflicts, and that true progress and civilization could only be achieved through peaceful means.

Shaw's belief that peace was infinitely more arduous than war stemmed from his understanding of the complexities and challenges involved in building and maintaining peaceful relationships between nations. He recognized that achieving peace required a great deal of effort, patience, and diplomacy, as well as a willingness to listen to and understand the perspectives of others. In contrast, war was seen as a quick and easy solution to conflicts, but one that ultimately led to more suffering and destruction in the long run.

Shaw's plays often explored themes of conflict, power, and the human condition, and he used his platform as a playwright to advocate for peace and social justice. In works such as "Arms and the Man" and "Major Barbara," Shaw critiqued the glorification of war and militarism, and highlighted the absurdity and futility of armed conflict.