Religion peace and conflict Flashcards
(39 cards)
What is peace?
A state of harmony and absence of conflict; a key goal in both Christianity and Buddhism.
What is justice?
Fair treatment and restoration of what is right; a reason some religious people support war to correct injustice.
What is forgiveness?
Letting go of resentment; important in Christianity (e.g., Lord’s Prayer) and Buddhism (linked to compassion).
What is reconciliation?
Restoring broken relationships after conflict; promoted by both Christians and Buddhists as a path to peace.
What is violence?
The use of physical force to harm; discouraged in both religions.
What is pacifism?
The belief that violence is wrong and conflicts should be resolved peacefully.
What is the Christian view on pacifism?
Many Christians (e.g., Quakers) are pacifist, following Jesus’ teachings to “turn the other cheek.”
What is the Buddhist view on pacifism?
Strongly supports pacifism; violence contradicts the First Precept (“Do not harm”).
What is war?
Armed conflict between nations or groups, often raising moral and religious issues.
What is a just war?
A war considered morally acceptable under certain conditions – e.g., right intention, last resort, proportionality.
What is the Just War Theory?
A Christian theory developed by Augustine and Aquinas to set moral conditions for war.
What are key criteria for a just war?
Must be for a just cause, declared by authority, last resort, with a reasonable chance of success, and avoid harming civilians.
What is a holy war?
A war fought for a religious cause; rare today, but historically supported (e.g., Christian Crusades).
What is the Christian view on war?
Divided – some accept just war, others are pacifist. Jesus taught peace, but some wars are seen as necessary.
What is the Buddhist view on war?
Generally opposes war; it causes suffering and goes against the First Precept. However, intention is considered.
What is terrorism?
The unlawful use of violence, often to achieve political or religious goals.
What is the Christian view on terrorism?
Condemned; it causes harm to innocent people and goes against “Love your neighbour.”
What is the Buddhist view on terrorism?
Completely opposed; it causes suffering and breaks the First Precept.
What are weapons of mass destruction (WMDs)?
Weapons that can cause large-scale loss of life (e.g., nuclear, biological, chemical).
What is the Christian view on WMDs?
Many oppose them for their destructive power, though some accept deterrence. Catholic Church generally against.
What is the Buddhist view on WMDs?
Strongly against; they cause immense suffering and violate non-harming (ahimsa).
What is retaliation?
Returning harm for harm; often leads to a cycle of violence.
What is the Christian view on retaliation?
Discouraged – Jesus taught “If someone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other also.”
What is the Buddhist view on retaliation?
Wrong; causes further suffering and negative karma. Compassion should guide actions.
