What is Peace, how have Our Concepts of Peace Evolved, and what is a Holistic Vision of Peace for the Twenty-First Century? 1

Almost everyone in the world says they are for “peace,” but what does peace mean? Numerous definitions apply. From the Peace Studies field, peace might mean (1) evolving visions and goals for creating a more peaceful society and world, with different people focusing on different aspects of peace that they each see as essential; (2) evolving non-violent means and processes for bringing about needed social–political change, including support for desired visions and goals; and (3) a feeling (i.e., how do you feel when you feel peaceful inside?)