pacifism

[ˈpæsɪfɪzəm]

pacifism Definition

the belief that war and violence are unjustifiable and that all disputes should be settled by peaceful means.

Using pacifism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pacifism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Gandhi's philosophy of pacifism inspired many civil rights movements.

  • Example

    The country's pacifism was reflected in its foreign policy.

  • Example

    The organization advocates for pacifism and disarmament.

  • Example

    She was a pacifist who refused to participate in the war.

pacifism Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with pacifism

  • the belief that all forms of violence, including self-defense, are unjustifiable

    Example

    Absolute pacifism is a difficult position to maintain in a world where violence is often used to achieve political goals.

  • the belief that some forms of violence, such as self-defense or defense of others, may be justified in certain circumstances

    Example

    Selective pacifism recognizes that there may be situations where the use of force is necessary to protect innocent lives.

  • a social movement that advocates for the use of nonviolent means to achieve political and social change

    Example

    The pacifist movement gained momentum during the 1960s as people protested against the Vietnam War.

Origins of pacifism

from French 'pacifisme', from 'pacifique' meaning 'peaceful'

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Summary: pacifism in Brief

The term 'pacifism' [ˈpæsɪfɪzəm] refers to the belief that war and violence are unjustifiable and that all disputes should be settled by peaceful means. It encompasses ideas like 'absolute pacifism,' which rejects all forms of violence, and 'selective pacifism,' which allows for some forms of violence in certain circumstances. Pacifism is often associated with social movements, such as the pacifist movement of the 1960s.