2. Religion, Peace & Conflict Flashcards
1
Q
Biological Weapons
A
Disease-producing agents, such as bacteria, viruses and toxins, that are used against humans to cause disease and death.
2
Q
Bullying
A
The deliberate intimidation of a person through words or physical actions.
3
Q
Chemical Weapons
A
Toxic chemicals used to kill or injure; are banned under international law.
4
Q
Civilian Casualties
A
People who, despite not fighting in a war, are injured or killed by the fighting.
5
Q
Conflict
A
A dispute between sides; can be between individuals, groups, or nations.
6
Q
Conflict Resolution
A
Creating peace by finding a solution for a problem between two parties that have been at war or in dispute.
7
Q
Dictator
A
A ruler who uses power unjustly.
8
Q
Environmental Damage
A
The potential created by modern warfare, in which an army might destroy huge areas of land to wipe out an enemy’s cover, using chemical weapons that can affect the vegetation for decades, even after the war has ended.
9
Q
Forgiveness
A
Letting go of blame against a person for wrongs they have done; moving on.
10
Q
Holy War
A
A war that is believed to be sanctioned by God and for a religious cause.
11
Q
Injustice
A
Lack of justice, which can lead to a lack of self-worth and dignity.
12
Q
Justice
A
Bringing fairness back to a situation and for all people.
13
Q
Just War Theory
A
A set of rules and conditions, as defined by St. Thomas Aquinas, that must be met for a war to be believed to be justified, which includes justifiable military action, and being acceptable to God.
14
Q
Martyrdom
A
The act where a person is killed for their religious beliefs (martyr) and accepts death rather than renouncing their faith.
15
Q
Non-Violent Resistance
A
Opposing the use of physical force to bring about social or political change by resisting and/or acting against someone or something.
16
Q
Nuclear deterrence
A
Having nuclear weapons with the aim of deterring/preventing other states attacking for a fear of retaliation and nuclear war (possibly leading to mutually assured destruction).
17
Q
Nuclear weapons
A
A weapon of mass destruction, more especially a device that releases energy in a violent, explosive way as a result of a nuclear reaction, causing extensive damage, major area destruction, and a significant loss of life.
18
Q
Nuclear War
A
A war fought using nuclear weapons.
19
Q
Pacifism
A
The belief that all violence and war are wrong and unjustifiable, it should never be used, and instead, disputes should be settled by peaceful means.
20
Q
Peace
A
The opposite of war, which is harmony between all in society.
21
Q
Peace-making
A
Working to bring about peace and reconciliation.
22
Q
Protest
A
A statement or action to express disagreement, and can be an organised event to demonstrate disagreement with a policy or political action.
23
Q
Radicalisation
A
When someone is influenced to hold extreme views on religious and/or political issues because they are unwilling to see alternate views.
24
Q
Reconciliation
A
Making up, rebuilding, and restoring friendly relationships between two groups/sides after disagreement and breakdown.
25
Refugees
Those who flee their homes, either because their lives have already been destroyed or due to a serious risk of death, all most likely from war.
26
Retaliation
To pay someone back for their harmful actions.
27
Righteous Anger
Anger against an injustice, which Christians feel is acceptable because it is directed against something that God would not agree with.
28
Terrorism
The unlawful use of violence and threats to intimidate others, usually against innocent civilians, which is used for political purposes to build fear in the ordinary population and to secure demands from the government.
29
Torture
Any act by which severe pain and suffering, whether it be physical or mental pain, is intentionally inflicted on a person/people by public officials.
30
Victims of war
Those who are harmed during a war, for example, those killed, injured, or left homeless.
31
Violence
Swift and intense behaviour involving physical force or action that intends to threaten, hurt, kill, or cause damage.
32
War
Armed conflict between two or more sides, either within a country or between nations.
33
Weapons of Mass Destruction
Nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons that cause widespread, indiscriminate damage.
34
Give some Christian teachings on forgiveness.
“Father forgive them, for they know not what they are doing” (Luke 23:34 – Jesus on the cross)
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
"Let you who is without sin cast the first stone." ( John 8:7 – Jesus to a crowd about to stone a woman to death for adultery)
"Forgive us our trespasses [sins] as we forgive those who trespass against us" (Lord's Prayer)
Peter asked Jesus "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21-22)
“Your brother was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ (Parable of the Prodigal Son - Luke 15:11)
35
Who put forward the Just War Theory?
The JWT was first put forward by **Thomas Aquinas**.
36
How does the Church of England advocate for the use of nuclear weapons?
The Church of England advocates for nuclear weapons as a deterrent, urging 'multilateral disarmament'.
*(the definition of multilateral disarmament is in this set of flashcards)*
37
Multilateral Disarmament
Where more than two countries reduce armaments and search for peace and security.
38
Does the Catholic Church support the use of nuclear weapons?
Yes, but to a certain extent.
The Catholic Church supports nuclear weapons as a deterrent in order to prevent war, and not for attacking entire populations or cities.
39
What are the criteria for a war to be 'just'?
**Just cause** - primarily intended to protect the innocent and human rights
**Legitimate authority** - approved by a legally appointed government
**Right intention** - must not be for revenge but have peace as its motive
**Last resort** - all other methods to establish peace have been exhausted
**Likelihood of success** - high chance of the war ending in victory
**Proportionality** - use of violence must be proportional to the threat of the enemy
**Discrimination** - must discriminate between combatants and non-combatants and avoid harming non-combatants
40
What do both the Anglican and Catholic churches encourage their members to do in terms of reducing nuclear weapons?
The two churches encourage their members to pray for peace.
41
What does the modern form of the Just War Theory state regarding needing a set of guidlines for war?
The modern form of the JWT states that there is still a need for a set of guidelines, even though the nature of war has changed so much since the time of St Thomas Aquinas.
42
Why can nuclear weapons **not** be used in a 'just' war, according to the Just War Theory?
1. Nuclear weapons cannot be considered a **proportionate** use of violence
2. Nuclear weapoms do not **discriminate** in who they kill; everyone in its radius is affected
43
Why might Christians disagree with the JWT?
For example, there might be disagreement about whether the reason for wanting to use force is good or not, and often, during wars, decisions have to be made quickly, and there is not the time for lengthy debates.
44
Was the UK right to go to war with Germany, according to the JWT?
Yes - they were protecting the rights and safety of millions of people in Europe. However, the allies did use unnecessary violence at times - for example, they bombed the city of Dresden, which was not important to the war.
45
Despite many Christians holding the view that war is wrong, in what circumstance might they support the opposing view?
War can sometimes be the only way of resolving a situation. They argue that Christians have a responsibility to defend the weak, and that it would be wrong for a Christian to stand aside and do nothing if others are suffering because of the aggressive actions of another country.
46
The first atomic bombs were dropped on _\_\_\_\_\_\_ and _\_\_\_\_\_\_ by the _\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
The first atomic bombs were dropped on **Hiroshima** and **Nagasaki** by the **Allies**
47
Give a quote that shows Catholic attitudes to Weapons of Mass Destruction.
"There is no such thing as a just war in the nuclear age" - Pope John 23rd
48
What is another name for the Quakers?
The Religious Society of Friends.
49
What are arguments in favour of WMDs?
- Nuclear weapons are necessary for defence because other countries have armed themselves (e.g. India, Pakistan, Israel, North Korea etc.)
- Having nuclear weapons can deter attacks from other countries, even if there is no intention to use them.
- Trident is an important symbol of Britain’s role in the world.
- The use of WMDs can bring a swift end to a war (e.g WW2), potentially saving millions more lives.
50
What view do the Quakers have regarding war and conflict?
Quakers believe that war can never be justified. Despite recognising that there is evil in the world, they say that evil cannot be overcome with the use of weapons which harm and kill.
51
Instead of using nuclear weapons, what weapons do the Quakers believe should be used?
They believe that Christians should use 'weapons of the Spirit' - love, truth, peace - to overcome evil.
52
What are arguments against WMDs?
- Nuclear weapons do not discriminate in who they kill; they wipe out anyone in the area
- The effects are disproportionate to any possible success that might be achieved.
- Pope Benedict said that in nuclear war there are “no victors, only victims”
– Nuclear war causes destruction and chaos.
- Possessing WMD increases tension between countries and causes fear
- Nuclear weapons cause incomparable damage to the environment
- Nuclear defence programs are very expensive and use money that could be spent on domestic issues like healthcare and homelessness
53
What is the name of someone who holds views about pacifism?
A pacifist.
54
Is pacifism the same as doing nothing to resist evil?
No; pacifists do fight against injustice and aggression, but in a *non-violent way*.
55
Conscientious Objectors
People who are firmly opposed to any form of warfare in any circumstances.
56
What migt a conscientious objector do during a war?
They refuse to fight as soldiers or work in the production of arms, but instead aim to promote peace in other ways, such as nursing, carrying stretchers, or driving ambulances.
57
When and how did the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) rise to fame?
The decision to deploy US Cruise Missiles in Western Europe in the early 1980s was very controversial, and led to a huge growth in the 'peace movement' and a new interest in the CND.
58
What was former Roman Catholic priest, Mgr Bruce Kent, known for regarding the CND?
At one time, he was the General Secretary of the CND, and became a familiar figure on radio and television, encouraging people to support the campaign for getting rid of nuclear weapons.
59
Historically, how have pacifists been treated/regarded as?
Historically, pacifsts have been regarded by some as cowards, and have even been punished, rejected or even shot for refusing to fight in a war, most significantly during WW1.
60
Who is Dietrich Bonhoeffer?
He was a German Lutheran pastor, theologian and peace activist, who was known for opposing National Socialism. He was a former pacifist who came to believe that although violence is evil, there are worse evils which can only be dealt with by the use of force.
61
How did Bonhoeffer begin his ministry?
His ministry started off with the rise of the Nazi party in Germany. He initially preached pacifism, and non-violently protested against Hitler.
62
What did Bonhoeffer do after realising what was actually happening to German Jews?
He helped to organise escape routes for them in Switzerland, and was imprisoned for his activities.
63
What did Bonhoeffer do after realising that Hitler was not going to listen to peaceful protests?
He joined the conspirators working for the overthrow of the Nazi regime. He took part in the failed plot to assassinate Hitler, and was imprisoned in Buchenwald concentration camp. He was then executed on 9th April 1945.
64
Give three reasons for pacifism.
Any three of the following:
- Jesus taught that violence was wrong and therefore a Christian must abide by this teaching.
- MLK and Ghandi have proved that it is possible to acheive change without bloodshed.
- Wars never settle disputes. It is only when people have had enough of war and sit down and talk that matters are resolved. It is better to talk in the first place and avoid any loss of life.
- War demoralises people and the innocent suffer. Pacifism avoids the baser instincts of vice, cruelty and brutality, which often emerge during a war.
- The invention of nuclear weapons has resulted in the potential to wipe out the human race. Pacifism would ensure the continuation of the human race.
65
Give three reasons against pacifism.
Any three from the following:
- Jesus was not afraid to use force to throw out the traders in the temple. Some Christians believe that this suggests that Jesus was not a pacifist.
- An evil or corrupt ruler will ignore non-violent protests. War may be the only way to remove an evil dictatorship and liberate people.
- If a country has to defend itself against an enemy, then it is only right that all able-bodied members of the country should support the war.
- Wars have brought out some of the best instincts in people: bravery, brotherly love and a willingness to co-operate with others.
- A pacifist nation would be vulnerable to harm from those nations who refuse to give up their weapons.
- The commandment 'Do not kill' refers to murder, not to killing in a just war.
66
Allies
Friendly associates working towards a mutual goal.
67
Atomic Bomb
A bomb with explosive power due to the sudden release of energy from a heavy chemical element.
68
Radiation
A type of dangerous and powerful energy that is produced by radioactive substances and nuclear reactions.
69
Was the UK right to be involved with the Gulf War of 1990, according to the JWT?
Yes, because the intervention had a just cause, legitimate authority, and a high probability of success, although issues about proportionality arose due to the significant loss of Iraqi lives.
70
Did the Iraq War of 2003 justify the JWT?
The Iraq War of 2003 failed to fully satisfy JWT criteria, as the just cause was weak, legitimate authority was disputed, and the consequences, including civilian suffering, contributed to the UK’s involvement to be ethically questionable, despite military success.
71
Give some *illegal* torture methods.
- Covering a subject's head with a bag
- Making someone stand for a long time
- Sleep deprivation
- Mock execution
- Waterboarding
72
Give some arguements in favour of torture.
To Save Lives: Torture may be justified if it can extract vital information to prevent large-scale harm.
Preventive, Not Punitive: Torture aims to stop future crimes, unlike punishment for past actions.
Terrorists' Rights: Those who commit atrocities forfeit their right to protection under the law.
Extreme Circumstances: Fanatics seeking destruction might justify extreme measures.
Defining Torture: The distinction between harsh treatment and torture is subjective, with no clear boundaries.
73
Give some arguements against the use of torture.
Violates Human Rights: Torture dehumanizes victims and contravenes international human rights laws.
Erodes State Morality: Nations lose credibility and moral standing when they endorse torture.
Ineffectiveness: Victims often provide false or unreliable information under duress.
Fallacy of the "Ticking Time Bomb": Scenarios where torture might prevent disaster are largely hypothetical and unrealistic.
Risk of Abuse: Allowing torture risks extending it to innocent people, leading to widespread misuse.
74
What is Pax Christi's vision of peace?
A world where human rights are respected, basic needs are met, and people feel safe and valued.
75
What values does Pax Christi promote?
Peace, nonviolence, and reconciliation.
76
What does Pax Christi believe about nuclear weapons?
They are illegal, immoral, and their use can never be morally justified.
77
How does Pax Christi campaign against nuclear weapons?
By opposing Trident renewal, organizing seminars, and marking anniversaries of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
78
What does Pax Christi do to support peace in Palestine-Israel?
It supports peace organizations, sends peace messages to Bethlehem, and campaigns against the separation wall.
79
How does Pax Christi engage with youth?
Through peace education days, retreats, and workshops in schools and universities.
80
When was Pax Christi founded and why?
In 1945, to promote reconciliation between France and Germany after World War II.
81
How did Pax Christi begin its international peace efforts?
Through peace walks, such as the one from Assisi to Rome in 1952, which inspired further action.
82
Which Bible verses inspire Pax Christi's work for peace?
Matthew 5:9 ('Happy are those who work for peace...') and Psalm 34:14 ('Seek peace and pursue it.')
83
What message did Pope John Paul II give about Pax Christi?
He praised Pax Christi for drawing attention to violence that disrupts harmony between humans and creation.
84
What were the long-term effects of the nuclear bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
Radiation caused cancer, birth defects, and destroyed generations.
85
Why does Pax Christi oppose the arms trade?
Because weapons fuel war and conflict, and life is sacred.
86
What does Pax Christi encourage people to do about arms trade investments?
Ensure churches, pension funds, and local authorities do not invest in arms companies.
87
What does Pax Christi believe about violence and war?
They are not inevitable; education can provide tools to resolve conflict creatively.
88
How does Pax Christi promote peace education?
By running workshops, retreats, and international gatherings of young peacemakers.
89
What is a Holy War in Christianity?
A Holy War is a war fought for a religious cause, often sanctioned by religious authority.
90
What is the Catholic Church's stance on weapons of mass destruction?
The Catholic Church opposes WMDs due to their indiscriminate nature and moral implications.
91
What are three main consequences of modern warfare?
Consequences include loss of life, environmental destruction, and societal destabilization.
92
What are two examples where religious differences caused war?
Examples include the Crusades and sectarian conflicts in Northern Ireland.
93
What are three non-religious reasons a war might occur?
Non-religious reasons include political power struggles, resource disputes, and territorial ambitions.
94
What are two Catholic agencies that help victims of war and examples of their work?
Agencies like Caritas and CAFOD provide humanitarian aid and advocacy for peace.
95
What are Catholic views on terrorism?
The Church condemns terrorism as an attack on innocent life and human dignity.
96
What are Catholic views on torture?
The Church opposes torture as it violates human rights and the dignity of the person.
97
What is radicalisation in a Catholic context?
Radicalisation involves adopting extreme ideologies, often countered by education and community support.
98
What is martyrdom and its significance in Christianity?
Martyrdom is seen as a witness to faith, with martyrs often revered for their sacrifice.
99
What do Catholic organizations working for peace do?
Catholic organizations like Pax Christi promote education, advocacy, and humanitarian work to foster peace.
