Global Citizens: ‘us’, ‘them’ and the war machine
Arthur Clark’s The ABCs of Human Survival: A Paradigm for Global Citizenship has one chapter, “Paradigm Shift” that talks about the destructive patterns of behaviour that have characterised centuries of human behaviour – and which continue to kill millions of people around the globe.
Various ‘peace’ movements or advocates for diplomacy have usually accompanied wars. Now, in part because of social media, people can react to violence, they can critique arguments for war and they can be creative activists.
But are Global Citizens all pacifists? How do Global Citizens respond to war and violence?
Obviously, there is not just one answer to this – but it might be true to say that Global Citizens are likely to ask questions about wars and will ask questions about the information they are getting from mainstream media about wars and violent acts.
Some recent global responses to violence
- After the Charlie Hebdo shootings, there was a “Je suis Charlie” campaign – including cartoons and protests.
- After the Paris attacks, people and countries displayed the colours of the French flag - on buildings and Facebook profiles.
- In response to the ongoing war in Syria, many people believe countries that are able should take in as many refugees and asylum seekers as they can. How this should be organised is a matter of debate.
It’s not that Global Citizens are going to have the same response to events, or that they will agree about what to do – but they are likely to have questions, an opinion and advocate some sort of action!