The most disadvantageous peace is better than the most just war

The most disadvantageous peace is better than the most just war

Desiderius Erasmus, a renowned Dutch philosopher and theologian of the Renaissance period, was a firm believer in the idea that peace, even if it is not entirely just, is always preferable to war. His famous quote, "The most disadvantageous peace is better than the most just war," reflects his deep understanding of the devastating consequences of armed conflict and the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

Erasmus lived during a time of great political and religious turmoil in Europe, with wars and conflicts raging across the continent. He witnessed firsthand the destruction and suffering that war brought upon people, and he was deeply troubled by the senseless violence and bloodshed that seemed to be a constant feature of human history. In his writings, Erasmus often criticized the rulers and leaders who pursued war for their own selfish interests, and he called for a more peaceful and harmonious world.

For Erasmus, peace was not just the absence of war, but a state of harmony and cooperation among nations and individuals. He believed that true justice could only be achieved through peaceful means, and that war, no matter how just the cause, could never truly bring about lasting peace. In his view, the costs of war, both in terms of human lives and resources, far outweighed any potential benefits, and he argued that it was always better to seek diplomatic solutions to conflicts rather than resorting to violence.

Erasmus' message of peace and reconciliation continues to resonate today, as the world grapples with ongoing conflicts and tensions. His words serve as a reminder of the importance of dialogue, understanding, and compromise in resolving disputes and building a more peaceful world. While the path to peace may not always be easy or straightforward, Erasmus believed that it was always worth pursuing, even if it meant making compromises or concessions. In the end, he believed that the true measure of a just society was not in its ability to wage war, but in its commitment to peace and justice for all.