Keywords

critical theories, militarism, nonviolence, nursing philosophy, peacemaking, praxis, trauma, violence, war and health, war veterans

 

Authors

  1. Sr, Sharon McGuire OP, PhD, FNP-BC
  2. Boyle, Joyceen PhD, RN, FAAN

Abstract

This philosophical analysis critically explores an archeology of militarism as an underpinning to multiple forms of violence, especially war. Deconstructing militarism and its discourses reveal it as a pervasive geographical, cultural, political, and psychological presence. New war technologies, related health and environmental problems, injuries, social suffering, and disproportionality in military spending as a threat to health are uncovered. Continuing the dialogue in formal nursing associations, critiquing media complicity in securing consent for war, and reconstructing a nonviolent, healthier world through nonviolent resistance are advocated.