Local Peace Economy 101
The Local Peace Economy is a concept aimed at challenging and transforming the existing war economy that perpetuates violence, oppression, and environmental degradation. Evans asserts that ending war necessitates dismantling the war economy, which funds and perpetuates global conflicts.
The world is facing a flood of crises, including global inequality, climate change, rampant weapon sales, and the rise of artificial intelligence. These challenges are causing unprecedented violence, destruction, and the emergence of fascism in many countries. Cultivating a Local Peace Economy is akin to building an ark to weather this flood.
The Local Peace Economy represents a cooperative, nurturing, and caring system where resources are shared, and communities thrive. It is about understanding that there is abundance on the planet and promoting the true values of life, love, and joy. The journey towards a Local Peace Economy starts at the grassroots level, within local communities, and involves divesting from the war economy.
To cultivate a Local Peace Economy, individuals must reconnect their mind, body, and heart, practicing mindfulness to free themselves from destructive stress and trauma responses. Creativity and imagination are essential elements of being human, but they have been suppressed and co-opted by the war economy. Rediscovering our creativity and nurturing relationships is crucial to fostering a Local Peace Economy.
The United Statesâ history is marked by the destruction of peace economies through colonization, slavery, and genocide. The moment has come for people to recognize the costs of such violence and take responsibility for creating positive change. Divesting from the war economy is a cyclical process, requiring individuals to change their habits and patterns.
Cultivating a Local Peace Economy is not a linear path; it involves shifting from scarcity-driven, time-obsessed thinking to embracing a circular approach to time and life. Evans encourages people to engage in practices, build community support, and nurture a sense of fulfillment that the war economy cannot provide.
Embracing the Local Peace Economy means acknowledging the true value lies in relationships, including the one with ourselves. We can collectively bring about positive change and move away from violence and fascism by nourishing those closest to us and promoting deeper connections.
The journey towards a Local Peace Economy is multidimensional, and there are many ways to participate. Reading, practicing, and finding partners are suggested ways to embark on this transformative path. Rather than seeing humanity's complexities as problems to solve, embracing and celebrating them can lead to a greater understanding of our interconnectedness.
We each have a unique role in this historical moment and can join the movement towards a Local Peace Economy. By doing so, each of us can contribute to a more caring, nurturing, and peaceful world. The transition may be challenging, but it promises a beautiful journey towards building a brighter future for all.
đ Â This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.
