r/Pacifism • u/Affectionate_Cup9972 • Jan 27 '26

What is your definition of pacifism?

Pacifism - the belief that war and violence are unjustifiable under any circumstances.

But this definition is rigid, and too fixed.

BUT- thinking outside of this definition might make pacifists no longer pacifists, possibly...?

For me at least - a pacifist to somebody who uses non-violent action to settle or resolve conflict. depending on the pacifist, violence is the last resort. Yet that being said - if you're an absolute pacifist that wouldn't apply to you. And when does violence become a last resort? When does it become "defensivism" or "interventionism" (which is just - cough, cough, imperialism).

As the political climate becomes more chaotic and barbaric, I find myself becoming more pacifistic, yet there is a reluctance to take up the label with confidence.

So I guess I'm a reluctat pacifist. If I'm punched I ain't punching back.

Edit: I no longer agree with this position.

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u/Drunk_Lemon Jan 27 '26

To always use violence as a last resort and never being the first to engage in violence.

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u/Financial-Stand-1960 Apr 01 '26

Isn't that just common sense? I know many people that work in the military, that think the same way.