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0 pointsSlowTao7mo ago0 comments

Unfortunately, that defense allows hoarding wealth. If the wealth was more evenly distributed globally, there would be little reason to defend against raids.

This is how places like the US despite having 4% of the population have about a quarter of the material and energy consumption. Not to single them out, I am in Australia, it is a similar ratio.

I am not defending this situation, just highlighting its role.

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XorNot7mo ago

Why would a more even distribution of resources lead to less war?

Like, it might but if resources are equally distributed then raiding your neighbors for more is one of the best ways to get more of them.

Does no one study history? War wasn't invented in the 20th century.

Chimps in the damn jungle go to war with each other.

prewett7mo ago

Not all wars are about raiding, especially in the modern era. Putin isn’t interested in Ukraine’s wealth. Nor would a Chinese invasion of Taiwan be about money.

SlowTaoOP7mo ago

You are right. I was far to reductionist there.

"No wars have been more ruthless and ravaging than “just” wars, fought in “defense” of religion, honor, or principle. If war must be, give me rather a war to capture an enemy’s wealth and territory, based on honest greed, in which I shall be careful not to destroy what I want to possess. " - Alan Watts

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