Of course we would rather Peace. Unfortunately, you have to carry a big stick and speak quietly.
Quoting: Anonymous Coward 17952043 Do we have to? Or have we just been trained to be this way? How many times have you really needed that "big stick?"
Quoting: Anonymous Coward 10883673 It's nature vs. nurture. Unfortunately, all of the nurture in the world couldn't stop the nature of this world. The nature of (most) society(ies) is one like you've explained- Based on consumerism, wealth, yada yada ya... It is so deeply imbedded within most societies, especially those similar to western culture, that any positive effects of nurturing will be quickly unraveled by pubescence.
Assuming we agree on this notion that I've briefly explained above- it should go without saying that, "The big stick", is a necessity, but only one of absolute last resort (imo). I don't like the way that it is, but I have no control over how society is adversely effected by things like MSM or having consumerism rammed down the populous' throats on a daily basis (along with numerous other factoring forces of negative consequence).
So yes, I prefer peace & harmony. Unfortunately, that is not the nature of most societies- and therefore the nature of their population. Which leads me to the conclusion of, yes, "the big stick", is a necessity..
Just my 2 cents
I should note that, "the big stick", will not be used until someone comes to take it from me or threatens myself or my family- because you never know what's going to happen tomorrow, next week, next month, next year. When you need it, you will immediately know and be thankful for having the foresight to of had one in the first place.