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It’s been with us for centuries
Tribes against tribes with different gods or religious practices, Christians versus pagans, Roman Catholics versus Eastern Orthodox Catholics, Christians versus Muslims, Christians versus Jews, Catholics versus Protestants, Muslims versus Hindus, Sunni versus Shia, the list goes on and on.
There are differences of detail in each case, of course. Often one group wields more political power than another, or is, on average, wealthier than another, or has, on average, a different skin or hair color than another. And sometimes groups that come into conflict have lived previously in close proximity over long periods of tolerance, peace, and even cooperation and friendship.
Yet a small conflict between individuals from different groups can be expanded by extremists from each group into a wider, group conflict. Tolerant individuals can be forced to take sides in the conflict, whether from threats from members the other group or, ironically, from threats by extremists within their own group.
What can we do about it? Try to learn from history. Don’t side with extremists. If they are determined to have their conflict, get out of their way for the sake of your family’s safety. Or, if you have the courage to do so, stand between them in peace.
In many cases, although it may have taken centuries in some places, historical sectarian conflicts have often been resolved peacefully over time.
