Globalizing Americana: Part 23 – The Broader Implication of Peace Activism - Page 2

The willful process of excluding their fellow castaways, specifically Piggy, is a lesson in the manifestation of evil. The question one may rightfully ask is, “What was he excluded from?” Piggy was excluded from consideration. There was nothing about Piggy’s existence that had any meaning other than how it contributed to the group’s survival. Piggy’s existence was a means to benefiting the group. Once he no longer offered any meaningful contribution, he could be disposed of.

The peace advocate has to argue for Piggy. She has to inform the group that it was Piggy’s suggestion to use the conch as a means of gathering the group. It was Piggy’s glasses that provided the fire. The peace advocate negotiates between the potential brutality of the group and the recognized importance Piggy has despite his frailty.

The importance of this tension is nicely captured in The Silence of the Lambs, where is it suggested that if broadcasters use the young girl’s name it will be harder for Buffalo Bill to see her as a means to her flesh. He will be forced to see her for the person she is.

Similarly, animals cannot speak for themselves; a tree cannot speak for itself. They are as defenseless as Piggy. The advocate understands the bloodlust and seeks to mitigate that insatiability by appealing to Piggy’s worth.

Similarly, the peace advocate is an exemplary member of social organization because she retains this ability. She can express the value of a tree to the lumberjack. She can cause the meat eater to sympathize with the plight of the pig as it is hung to its death.

The implications of peace advocacy have a much broader scope than many give credit. The peace advocate is especially attuned to the plight of those that cannot fend for themselves. Peace advocacy, in its most general sense, is an attempt to negotiate with institutions or persons fully capable of exterminating both the advocate and the group or individual the advocate seeks to protect.

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Article Author: Jason J. Campbell

My name is Dr. Jason J. Campbell. I am an educator and a blogger. I am currently an Assistant Professor of Conflict Resolution and Philosophy at Nova Southeastern University. I hope you enjoy my articles.

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