Universal peace—from a woman's standpoint

Name: Universal peace—from a woman's standpoint
Author: Bertha von Suttner

By Bertha von Suttner

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About This Book

The essay argues that women should oppose war not merely from maternal suffering but from a universal, rational standpoint, contending that peace is morally, economically, religiously, and philosophically preferable. It critiques past female complicity in valorizing heroism and uniforms, offers an anecdote showing social pressure driving men toward insurrection, and predicts that changing female attitudes will help remove incentives for military careers. It calls for the fuller development of human virtues across sexes, advocates replacing force with right and freedom, and presents the women's movement as central to evolving a higher type of humanity capable of abolishing war.

About the Author

Bertha von Suttner

Bertha von Suttner (1843-1914) was an Austrian pacifist and author, renowned for her influential writings advocating for peace and disarmament. Her most notable work, "Lay Down Your Arms: The Autobiography of Martha von Tilling," reflects her deep commitment to the peace movement and critiques the horrors of war. Von Suttner's literary contributions extend beyond autobiography; she wrote extensively on the prospects of global peace, as seen in her works like "Disarm! Disarm!" and "Universal peace—from a woman's standpoint." A prominent figure in the early 20th-century peace movement, she became the first woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1905, solidifying her legacy as a key advocate for non-violence and international cooperation.