Anti-war

The term anti-war sometimes refers to pacifism, i.e., opposition to all use of military force to settle conflicts, but most often is used in the context of opposing one particular nation's decision to wage war.

Usage

Use of the term can cause confusion:

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• is an "anti-war activist" equally opposed to both side's military campaigns, or are the taking sides?
• likewise, does against the war indicate a pacifist objection, or a preference for the victory of one side?

Some uses of anti-war suggest that only one side is waging a particular war, implying that if that party were to withdraw or surrender, the war would instantly cease to exist. Much rhetoric about America's role in the Vietnam War employed this usage.

Related Topics:
America - Vietnam War

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Anti-war movements and pacifist movements are related, but are not one and the same, although members of anti-war campaigns often marshall pacifistic imagery and arguments. While pacifists oppose all war, "anti-war" activists seek to get one side to withdraw or surrender.

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Anti-War stances developed repeatedly during the 20th century, most notably during the First World War, when demonstrators in Russia demanded an end to that nation's involvement in armed hostilities.

Related Topics:
20th century - First World War - Russia

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Pacifism is the belief that conflict is never acceptable, and that society should not be structured to maintain a stance of readiness to fight in a conflict (See disarmament).

Related Topics:
Pacifism - Disarmament

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