CM156 said:
Hafrael said:
I wouldn't like to die, but I wouldn't use violence to prevent it. I'm pretty adamant about my pacifism.
(I also couldn't spell pacifism for the life of me)
Alright, next question: why?
I don't love violence, but if you try to kill me, I have more then made up my mind that fighting back is the best choice.
Allso, allow me to quote someone on the matter of pacifism
Linkara seems to be operating under the assumption that "pacifism" is rejecting violence in every situation. That's not necessarily true. A pacifist philosophy can and very often does allow for violence in self-defense or as a last resort when it encompasses the principles of nonviolence. These pacifists don't fit into the "let's all just be friends" stereotype, so claiming Carter's parents were "devout pacifists" and then associating them with the rejection of violence in any and all situations is deceptive.
...
You're arguing under the assumption that pacifism is doing nothing. Pacifism doesn't equal indifference; I'd argue that indifference is closer to apathy.
Again, many pacifists who follow the nonviolence school of thought support violence as the last resort or in cases of self defense/the defense of others. You can't paint such a complex philosophy with such a broad brush, especially when it intertwines with similar but different topics, like nonviolent resistance, that complicate the matter even further.
I feel that violence, like I said earlier, is never justified. I just don't think I could ever live with myself if I ever committed any act of violence.
Then again, and I'd like to clarify this point, I've never been in a situation where a lack of violent action would result in my own death, or a loved one's. If I did face such a situation, and I was in danger, I don't think I would attack. But, if my brother, or my partner, were in that situation I'm not sure if my reaction would be the same.
I don't think I really have a rational reason for this, but I haven't thought to great extent about it.
I'll get back to you with a better explanation later, its late and I'm tired.