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Max de Hoyos

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Is world peace possible?

Is a global love and respect of humanity itself possible? What are the impediments (if any) to achieve world peace? What is your definition of global peace?

Is it simply the abstention from violence and infliction of pain, or is it something greater -- a cause to empower all human beings by way of love? I'd love to hear some thoughts on this since I know TED fosters love within its community! List your solutions to end whatever global issues there may be, and don't worry about specifics!

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Topics: World Peace global peace human behavior human rights
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Closing Statement from Max de Hoyos

I've considered this point for quite some time and have come to the conclusion that there is no truth but your own. What you focus on, you will feel and manifest--not only in your life, but the lives of others as well. I highly suggest we all look at the Tony Robbins video on why we do what we do, I feel like that has allowed me to shift my beliefs on what evil is and what the best way to combat it is.

Empowering beliefs are the way to create world peace. We must make it so that loving actions are the way which we receive pleasure, and causing pain to others creates pain in ourselves. We don't need to look anywhere to find these solutions--they are deeply rooted within our nature. Giving feels good, causing pain doesn't -- the reason anything to the contrary of this statement exists is because people overlook the effects of their actions, because they have learned to do so.

In closing, I'm grateful we had such intelligent people comment on this conversation, and I'm proud to be a member of this community! Much love to all.

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  • Zman Kietilipooskie

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    Nov 20 2012: I believe that world peace is impossible; this is based on the simple facts of human nature and also the reality of our economic structure, both of which sadly support selfishness and greed, and in the end perpetuate inequality and disagreements which lead to an un-peaceful world.
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      Colleen Steen 500+

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      Nov 20 2012: I agree with you Zman, that selfishness, greed, inequality and disagreements may support the idea of world peace being impossible.

      Human nature, however, also offers respect, compassion, empathy, goodness and love. Do you think/feel that as thinking, feeling, intelligent, insightful humans, we may have choices regarding what aspects of "human nature" we choose?

      • Zman Kietilipooskie

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        Nov 20 2012: I think that "respect, compassion, empathy, goodness and love" are things that are applied to people when they feel they have an incentive to do it or when they can spare it; otherwise people don’t necessarily give others any of the above. One of the purposes of government is to give people a reason to be good, and not harm or affect others negatively. Selfish behavior overcomes normal behavior, and all you need is a handful of selfish people to shift the balance.
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          Adriaan Braam 20+

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          Nov 20 2012: Zman, I think you are right, to a point but also somewhat negative. Over time this world has become a lot better than it was ages ago. Tolerance of others and protection of the individual is much more present. In many places we can now walk around at night, even as a woman. We can disagree with someone without being shot.

          Just as we will never be perfect, I do not expect this world to ever be perfect.
          I do believe we are here for a purpose and that purpose is not this world. This is the gym or seedbed of heaven and gyms will always smell :)

          In this world, both heaven and hell are present or represented. It is that situation which gives us our freewill and thus choices.
          I'd like to think there are people who make the right choices and become angels before they die. They have reached the stage of loving goodness for the sake of goodness, not for the sake of gain or prestige or anything else selfish.
          The more 'Mother Teresa's there are, the better world this will be.
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          Colleen Steen 500+

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          Nov 20 2012: Zman,
          I do not agree Zman that it is the purpose of government to give people a reason to be good. The government is elected by us, and are working for us. We have the ability to guide our government. I think/feel that it is important to have the qualities we speak of in ourselves, and I personally, do not depend on the government or anyone else to provide that for me. It is simply enjoyable to be respectful, compassionate and loving:>)

          Maybe YOUR gym smells Adriaan....mine smells pretty good:>)

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