Name: Why I chose a gun
Uploaded: 2012-01-30T15:51:45Z
Duration: 16 min 53 s
Description: Peter van Uhm is the Netherlands' chief of defense, but that does not mean he is pro-war. In this talk, he explains how his career is one shaped by a love of peace, not a desire for bloodshed -- and why we need armies if we want peace.

Peter van Uhm is the Netherlands' chief of defense, but that does not mean he is pro-war. In this talk, he explains how his career is one shaped by a love of peace, not a desire for bloodshed -- and why we need armies if we want peace.

Peter van Uhm: Why I chose a gun

Why I chose a gun

Choosing a gun over traditional instruments of change, a military leader advocates for the armed forces as peace enablers.

Violence has declined over centuries due to the constitutional state's monopoly on legitimate violence, fostering peace.

Failed states exemplify the dangers of uncontrolled violence, highlighting the critical role of legitimized armed forces.