War is delightful to those who have had no experience of it

War is delightful to those who have had no experience of it

Desiderius Erasmus, a renowned Dutch philosopher and theologian of the Renaissance period, once famously said, "War is delightful to those who have had no experience of it." This profound statement speaks volumes about the nature of conflict and the impact it has on individuals who have never been directly involved in it.

Erasmus, known for his humanist beliefs and advocacy for peace, understood the destructive and devastating effects of war on both a personal and societal level. He believed that those who have never experienced the horrors of war firsthand often romanticize or glorify it, seeing it as a noble and heroic endeavor. However, the reality of war is far from delightful. It is filled with death, destruction, and suffering, leaving behind a trail of devastation that can scar individuals and communities for generations.

For those who have never been on the frontlines of battle, war may seem like a distant and abstract concept, something that happens in far-off lands or in history books. They may be drawn to the excitement and adrenaline of conflict, without fully understanding the true cost of war. This ignorance can lead to a dangerous glorification of violence and aggression, perpetuating a cycle of conflict and destruction.

Erasmus, with his deep understanding of human nature and the complexities of war, sought to challenge this romanticized view of conflict. He believed that true wisdom and enlightenment come from experiencing the harsh realities of war firsthand, and that only through this experience can one truly appreciate the value of peace and the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving conflicts.