Meaning: The quote by Elihu Root captures the essence of the long-term benefits of preventing war and fostering a culture of peace. Elihu Root was a prominent American lawyer, statesman, and diplomat who served as the Secretary of War and Secretary of State under President Theodore Roosevelt. Throughout his career, Root was a strong advocate for international cooperation and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

In the quote, Root emphasizes the significance of averting war as a means of establishing a habit of peace within a community or society. He suggests that each instance of preventing war contributes to the cultivation of a broader culture of peace, which, over time, becomes ingrained as a standard of conduct. Root's perspective aligns with the belief that peaceful habits and behaviors, when consistently practiced, can shape the collective consciousness and norms of a society, ultimately influencing how conflicts are approached and resolved.

The concept of "habits of peace" is rooted in the idea that individuals, communities, and nations can develop patterns of behavior and interaction that prioritize non-violent conflict resolution, cooperation, and mutual understanding. By consciously choosing peaceful alternatives to war and aggression, societies can gradually internalize these values and behaviors, leading to a more peaceful and stable environment.

Root's assertion that "every case of war averted is a gain in general" underscores the broader benefits of conflict prevention. Beyond the immediate avoidance of bloodshed and destruction, preventing war contributes to the preservation of human lives, the protection of infrastructure, and the avoidance of widespread suffering and displacement. Furthermore, the resources, both human and material, that would have been expended in a war are preserved and can be redirected towards constructive and productive endeavors such as economic development, education, and healthcare.

The notion of "community habits long continued become standards of conduct" emphasizes the transformative power of sustained peaceful practices. When a community consistently prioritizes peaceful resolutions and cooperation, these behaviors become deeply ingrained and shape the collective moral compass. Over time, peace becomes the expected and accepted mode of interaction, influencing the attitudes and actions of individuals and institutions.

In a broader context, Root's words also resonate on an international scale, highlighting the importance of fostering a global culture of peace. By cultivating habits of peace at the international level, nations can work towards building mutual trust, understanding, and collaboration, thereby reducing the likelihood of conflict and promoting stability and prosperity. International organizations, diplomatic efforts, and global initiatives aimed at conflict prevention and peacebuilding play a crucial role in shaping the norms and standards of conduct in the international community.

In conclusion, Elihu Root's quote encapsulates the enduring value of preventing war and nurturing a culture of peace. It underscores the far-reaching positive impact of averting conflicts, not only in immediate terms but also in the long-term establishment of peaceful norms and behaviors within communities and on the global stage. Root's perspective serves as a reminder of the vital role that peaceful habits and practices play in shaping the conduct and interactions of individuals, societies, and nations, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and secure world.