Throughout history, wars have often been framed not simply as political conflicts but as moral crusades, struggles between good and evil, civilization and chaos. In these moments, leaders and movements sometimes present violence as part of a larger historical or even sacred mission.
This powerful narrative, what we might call a “gospel of war,” can make conflict feel justified, even inevitable.
Why do such stories resonate so strongly with us? Why do figures who speak in terms of absolute certainty and cosmic struggle often rise to positions of influence, even when their claims seem extreme or irrational?
This talk by Leader Curt Collier will explore the deep psychological and cultural forces that turn conflict into moral drama. Drawing from history, philosophy, and human behavior, we will examine why societies so often elevate prophets of struggle, and whether a different ethical tradition, grounded in humility, pluralism, and dialogue, can ever be as successful.
This talk is at the meetinghouse and on Zoom. To receive the Zoom link, please email [admin@ethicalfocus.org](mailto:admin@ethicalfocus.org) by noon on Friday.
