Meaning: The quote "Peace has to be created, in order to be maintained. It will never be achieved by passivity and quietism" by Dorothy Thompson, a prominent American journalist and radio broadcaster, encapsulates the idea that peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but rather an active and intentional process that requires continuous effort and engagement. Thompson highlights the proactive nature of peace-building and emphasizes that it cannot be achieved through complacency or inaction.

Dorothy Thompson was a trailblazing journalist known for her insightful commentary on political and social issues during the mid-20th century. As one of the first female foreign correspondents and the first American journalist to be expelled from Nazi Germany, Thompson's career was marked by her fearless pursuit of truth and justice. Her experiences provided her with a unique perspective on the complexities of international relations and the challenges of promoting peace in a world plagued by conflict.

When Thompson asserts that "Peace has to be created, in order to be maintained," she is underscoring the proactive and deliberate nature of peacemaking. This statement acknowledges that achieving and sustaining peace requires active participation and the implementation of strategies aimed at resolving conflicts and addressing underlying tensions. In essence, peace is not a passive state that can be achieved through mere wishful thinking or avoidance of confrontation. Instead, it demands purposeful action and a commitment to addressing the root causes of discord.

Furthermore, Thompson's assertion that peace "will never be achieved by passivity and quietism" challenges the notion that a lack of conflict equates to genuine peace. She warns against the dangers of complacency and the belief that simply avoiding conflict is sufficient for the establishment of lasting peace. By using the term "quietism," which refers to a passive and introspective approach to life, Thompson emphasizes the inadequacy of passive acceptance as a means of achieving true peace. Instead, she advocates for a more assertive and engaged approach to conflict resolution and the promotion of harmonious relationships at both individual and societal levels.

Thompson's perspective on peace aligns with the principles of peace studies and conflict resolution, which emphasize the importance of proactive engagement, dialogue, and cooperation in fostering sustainable peace. Her words resonate with the understanding that peace is an ongoing process that requires continuous attention and active intervention to address underlying grievances and prevent the reemergence of conflict.

In today's world, marked by numerous geopolitical tensions, social injustices, and environmental challenges, Thompson's insights remain relevant. The quote serves as a reminder that the pursuit of peace demands an unwavering commitment to addressing the underlying causes of conflict, promoting understanding and empathy, and embracing the complexities of diverse perspectives and experiences.

In conclusion, Dorothy Thompson's quote encapsulates the proactive and intentional nature of peace-building, emphasizing the need for active engagement and the rejection of passive acceptance as a means of achieving lasting peace. Her words continue to inspire individuals and societies to embrace the challenges of peacemaking with courage, determination, and a steadfast commitment to creating a world characterized by harmony and mutual respect.