Incitement to war

Excitement to make war
Warmongers

Nature

Incitement to war refers to actions, speech, or propaganda that provoke or encourage conflict between nations or groups, often undermining peace and stability. This phenomenon can manifest through inflammatory rhetoric, hate speech, or the dissemination of false information, leading to heightened tensions and potential violence. It poses a significant problem as it can escalate disputes, justify military aggression, and contribute to human suffering. International law, including treaties and conventions, seeks to address incitement to war, recognizing its detrimental impact on global security and the importance of promoting dialogue and understanding to prevent conflict.

Claim

The means of defence against a foreign danger, have been always the instruments of tyranny at home. Among the Romans it was a standing maxim to excite a war, whenever a revolt was apprehended. Throughout all Europe, the armies kept up under the pretext of defending, have enslaved the people. It is perhaps questionable, whether the best concerted system of absolute power in Europe could maintain itself, in a situation, where no alarms of external danger could tame the people to the domestic yoke. (James Madison, in a 1787 debate).

Of course the people don't want war. But after all, it's the leaders of the country who determine the policy, and it's always a simple matter to drag the people along whether it's a democracy, a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism, and exposing the country to greater danger. (Herman Goering, Nuremberg trials, 1946; comments made privately to Gustave Gilbert, Nuremberg Diary, 1947)

Counter-claim

Incitement to war is often overstated and sensationalized. In a world filled with complex geopolitical dynamics, the notion that mere rhetoric can lead to conflict is simplistic. Most nations prioritize diplomacy and stability over reckless aggression. The focus should be on fostering dialogue and understanding rather than inflating fears about incitement. By exaggerating this issue, we distract from real challenges, undermining efforts to promote peace and cooperation on a global scale.