- Hermann Goering
The words of Hermann Goering, one of the major figures of Nazi Germany, starkly illustrate the power of leaders to whip their people into war. Throughout history, tyrants have manipulated and misled citizens to join in conflicts that serve only their own interests. But even in more democratically-minded societies, politicians have used fear-mongering and scare tactics to drive public opinion towards war.
Goering's quote reveals that leaders can more easily drag people along toward war than it may seem. In a democracy, this is done by creating false narratives about an imminent attack and denouncing pacifists for lack of patriotism. In autocratic regimes, dissenters are castigated or threatened until they comply with the will of the leader.
What has become clear throughout history is that war is motivated not just by strategic thought or the public interest, but also by power dynamics. Various elements come together to create an environment where war can be launched: a leader willing to exploit their people; a population that can be convinced to go along with a policy they don't necessarily agree with; and a flurry of media coverage amplifying the rhetoric and causing division among citizens.
We must recognize how leaders can take advantage of our deepest fears to pursue aggressive policies like militarism. We must also question our willingness to blindly accept these calls for war and consider if there are other ways for us as citizens to respond -- some that may contribute more positively to peace and stability in the world.
