Pacifism and neutrality

March 31, 2025

I particularly like Marcus Rubinstein’s sceptical stance regarding expectations of war, and especially the calls Australia should respond with armaments.

I have read with concern the reports of China’s intentions regarding imminent invasion of Taiwan. I feel pity for those who could be invaded, and living in apprehension, and wonder about the extent of China’s war pose. Could it possibly be as bad as the US? No, says Rubenstein.

I know that only neutrality and pacifism could make me proud to be Australian. Peter Briggs’s argument for AUKUS is laudable for its quiet rationality, but it recreates and affirms the stories of military technocracy. I am appalled that humans spend most resources and materials and energy on weapons. I do not want to be a part of that nation, that species, that life.