Galtung: Theories of Peace

Question 1

What is the old idea of peace?

Answer 1

The old idea of peace is a synonym for stability and equilibrium. Refers, also, to inner peace (a human being at peace with himself/herself). Covers “law and order” too.

Question 2

What are negative and positive peace?

Answer 2

a. Negative: the absence of organized collective violence between major human groups such as nations, racial and ethnic groups, classes, etc.
b. Positive: synonym for all other good things in the world community like cooperation and integration between human groups. There is notable less emphasis on the absence of violence in that it excludes major violence and tolerates occasional violence.

Question 3

What does Galtung mean by the maintenance of positive relations?

Answer 3

Peace is not just the absence of negative interactions – it requires positive interaction. This is similar to cooperation and interdependence.