The Concept

Abstract

This chapter explores whether in studies of international law, peace studies, theology, studies on communication and peace or modern political thought we can find a productive, realistic and inclusive conceptualization of peace. One finds commonly three positions: the idea of peace is not defined at all, it is conceptualized in a negative way or in an affirmative way. All three positions have considerable flaws but they also offer building blocks for a robust conceptualization. A robust concept of peace would have to be rescued from the limited state-based “war versus peace” frame and should be expanded to include the broad variety of human relations. It should be applicable to all kinds of human relations. It should reflect that humanity knows a universal aspiration towards being incorporated in a community that celebrates sheer human togetherness as a “cosmopolitan togetherness”.