The Divided Mind of Humanity

Almost all wars that have happened throughout history, and those still happening today, revolve around three main reasons:

1. Religion

2. Land

3. Power

Even when land or power appears to be the main motive, religion often lies quietly in the background, influencing the sense of “us” versus “them”. Religion, while claiming to promote kindness, empathy, and humanity, also builds divisions through the language it uses: “our people,” “their people,” “our community,” “their community.”

This sense of identity comes with a perceived duty to defend one’s faith, not just spiritually, but physically and politically. So, when a leader says, “We must protect our people; they are a threat to us,” they forget that “they” are people too, with the same right to exist, to live, to believe. And just as “we” feel the need to protect ourselves, “they” feel the same.

While many animals are territorial and engage in power plays, it’s humans even after being the most intelligent and conscientious beings on this planet, cause far more harm to the planet, not just through wars, but through the ideologies that justify them. Animals are territorial by nature, they fight for dominance, resources, and survival. But humans, with their intellect, morality, and language, have the ability to reflect and make choices. Yet, ironically, we often cause more damage to the planet than any other species. Not just through war, but through the ideologies we refuse to question. We claim to be evolved — and yet, our actions often prove otherwise.

Maybe it’s time we pause and ask ourselves:

What are we really fighting for?

What lines have we drawn in our minds that separate us from others?

And can we choose humanity over identity — connection over division?

Because in the end, we all share the same planet, breathe the same air, and carry the same fragile hope for peace.