This quote suggests that the continuation of war threatens the very existence of civilization and mankind. It underscores the destructive nature of war, which not only leads to loss of life and property, but also hampers progress, disrupts social order, and creates an environment of fear and hostility. The quote implies that if humanity cannot find ways to resolve conflicts peacefully, the survival of civilization itself is at risk.
The "abolishing war" part does not necessarily mean the complete elimination of conflicts, as conflicts are an inevitable part of human society. Rather, it refers to the transformation of the way we handle these conflicts, shifting from violent, destructive methods to peaceful, constructive ones.
It’s a call for humanity to evolve beyond the mindset that sees war as a solution to problems. It implies that the true mark of a civilized society is not its ability to wage war, but its ability to prevent it and resolve conflicts through peaceful means.
In today’s world, this quote is highly relevant. With the existence of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, the destructive potential of war is far greater than in the past. The quote reminds us that the survival of our civilization requires us to find peaceful solutions to our conflicts, whether they are international disputes, political disagreements, or social inequalities.
On a personal level, this quote could be interpreted as a call to resolve personal conflicts in a peaceful and constructive manner. It encourages us to avoid hostility and aggression in our interactions with others, and instead seek understanding, compromise, and reconciliation. It suggests that the quality of our relationships, and our personal well-being, depends on our ability to manage conflicts in a positive and peaceful way.