Meaning: The quote by Elihu Root addresses the limitations of peace propaganda in effectively influencing human behavior and addressing the root causes of conflict. Elihu Root, a prominent lawyer and statesman who served as the Secretary of War and Secretary of State of the United States, was known for his contributions to international law and diplomacy. In this quote, he expresses skepticism about the efficacy of peace propaganda in bringing about lasting peace and addressing the underlying factors that drive human actions.

Root's assertion that peace propaganda falls short of reaching the "springs of human action" suggests that he believed efforts to promote peace through argument and the creation of favorable attitudes towards peace are insufficient to address the deeper motivations and drivers of human behavior. While such methods may succeed in promoting the idea of peace and garnering public support for peaceful initiatives, they may not effectively address the fundamental causes of conflict and the complexities of human decision-making.

Root's perspective reflects a recognition of the multifaceted nature of conflict and the challenges inherent in promoting lasting peace. It implies that achieving sustainable peace requires a deeper understanding of the root causes of conflict, including factors such as power dynamics, resource scarcity, historical grievances, and cultural differences. Merely advocating for peace without addressing these underlying issues may not lead to meaningful and lasting change.

Moreover, Root's critique of peace propaganda aligns with the idea that human behavior is driven by a complex interplay of psychological, social, and cultural factors. Simply appealing to reason and creating a favorable sentiment towards peace may not sufficiently account for the deeply ingrained beliefs, emotions, and interests that shape individual and collective decision-making. In this sense, Root's perspective underscores the need for a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to addressing conflict and promoting peace.

Root's background as a lawyer and a key figure in international diplomacy lends weight to his critique of peace propaganda. His experience in navigating complex legal and diplomatic challenges likely informed his understanding of the limitations of simplistic approaches to peacebuilding. His insights are particularly relevant in the context of international relations, where conflicts often stem from deep-seated geopolitical, economic, and ideological factors that cannot be easily addressed through superficial appeals to peace.

In conclusion, Elihu Root's quote highlights the limitations of peace propaganda in addressing the underlying causes of conflict and shaping human behavior. His perspective underscores the need for a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to promoting peace, one that takes into account the complex interplay of factors that drive human actions and perpetuate conflict. By acknowledging the shortcomings of simplistic peace promotion efforts, Root prompts us to consider more holistic and informed strategies for building a more peaceful world.