IGNOU MPSE - 006 Peace and Conflict Studies Notes In ENGLISH Medium

Q1 Do you agree that human nature is inherently aggressive? What do you understand by negative and positive peace? Explain.

Answer -

Introduction

Understanding human nature is a complex subject, which raises the question of whether humans are inherently aggressive or not. Historical instances of wars, violence, and conflict suggest that aggression may be a part of human behavior. However, there are also numerous examples of empathy, cooperation, and peace. In this context, the concepts of "negative" and "positive" peace provide a deeper insight into human behavior and society.

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There are three major approaches to understanding human nature:

1. Human nature is inherently peaceful

According to this view, human nature is peaceful, kind, and cooperative. Feelings like compassion, love, and empathy are present from birth. Many religious traditions believe that humans are a special creation of God, capable of living a good and moral life. A person shapes their own future and moves toward progress. So, it is believed that human nature is basically peaceful.

2. Human nature is inherently aggressive

According to this view, humans naturally have anger, greed, and violent tendencies. Many religions believe that good and evil both exist in humans, and there is a constant struggle between them. In Christianity, the idea of 'original sin' and in Buddhism, desire is seen as the cause of conflict. Psychologists also believe that in tough situations, a person can become aggressive. So, this view says that human nature is basically violent and selfish.

3. Human nature is transformed by social relationships

According to this view, a person is neither completely peaceful nor fully aggressive. Human nature is shaped by society, relationships, and environment. When people interact, communicate, and work together, their behavior takes form. This view believes that human nature is not fixed, but keeps changing through education, culture, and experiences.

Negative and Positive Peace:

Peace

• If We Understand Peace In Simple Words - peace does not just mean the absence of war or violence, but it is a condition where there is justice, harmony, and cooperation in society. Based on this idea, peace is divided into two types: negative and positive peace.

Negative and positive concept of peace

• Negative Peace- Negative peace means the absence of conflict, violence, or war in society. In this, peace exists only because conflict is suppressed, not solved. For example stopping protest through military force or strict law. This peace is superficial and temporary, where tensions remain hidden, Famous scholar Kenneth Boulding calls it "peace of the grave" or "peace of emptiness," where everything looks calm outside, but inside there is no life, freedom, or energy.
• Positive Peace- Positive peace means a situation where not only is there no violence, but justice, equality, dialogue, and cooperation are actively present in society. This peace is long-lasting and based on moral values. It involves understanding the root causes of conflict and finding solutions. Famous scholar Kenneth Boulding says it is "the good management of conflict, "where the goal is not to suppress conflict but to resolve it.

Conclusion

In the end, it is more appropriate to say that human nature is neither completely aggressive nor completely peaceful, but it is shaped by social conditions. Similarly, peace is not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, equality, and cooperation. Therefore, the establishment of positive peace can lay the foundation of a lasting, humane, and balanced society.

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