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If there are sound reasons or bases for the points you demand, then there is no need for violence. On the other hand, when there is no sound reason that concessions should be made to you but mainly your own desire, then reason cannot work and you have to rely on force. Thus using force is not a sign of strength but rather a sign of weakness.

Tenzin Gyatso (Dalai Lama)#67

PeaceWarConflict resolutionReasonForceStrength

About this quote

What does it mean?
Violence or force is used when reason fails or when demands lack a sound basis.
In plain terms
If you have good reasons you do not need force; using force shows weakness.
What can you take from it?
Rely on sound reasoning before considering force or coercion.

Where it applies

  • political negotiation
  • personal disputes
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • negotiation skills
  • conflict de-escalation
  • diplomacy

Questions to consider

  • Is my demand based on sound reason or just desire?
  • When is force truly justified?

Another view

Sometimes force is necessary for immediate self-defense against unreasoned aggression.

More from Tenzin Gyatso (Dalai Lama)

  1. It is necessary to help others, not only in our prayers, but in our daily lives. If we find we cannot help others, the least we can do is to desist from harmin…

    Permalink to quote #66
  2. As a result of more contact with people from other traditions, as time passes I have firmed my conviction that all religions can work together despite fundamen…

    Permalink to quote #68
  3. Sectarian feelings and criticism of other teachings or other sects is very bad, poisonous, and should be avoided.

    Permalink to quote #65

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